How Often Should You Get Your Backflow Device Tested?

If you’ve received a reminder from your water district—or you’re just not sure if you’re overdue—you’re probably asking:How often is backflow testing required?

In this post, we’ll explain the typical backflow testing schedule for residential and commercial properties, the factors that influence frequency, and how it works across the Lake Tahoe and Northern Nevada region.

💧 What Is Backflow Testing?

Backflow testing ensures your backflow prevention device is functioning properly and preventing dirty or hazardous water from entering your clean drinking supply. Water districts throughout California and Nevada require routine testing to maintain safe, potable water systems—especially for properties with irrigation, hot tubs, or fire sprinkler systems.

🛠️ How Often Should Backflows Be Tested?

✅ Backflow Testing Frequency in Lake Tahoe

Most residential and commercial properties in the Tahoe region are required to test their backflow device once per year.

The annual test requirement is enforced by local water districts, including:

• NTPUD (North Tahoe PUD)

• TCPUD (Tahoe City PUD)

• STPUD (South Tahoe PUD)

• TDPUD (Truckee Donner PUD)

• IVGID (Incline Village)

• TMWA (Reno/Sparks)

• ASCWD (Alpine Springs County)

• LPWD (Lakeside Park)

Some commercial or high-risk properties (restaurants, laundromats, large irrigation systems) may require semi-annual testing, but once per year is the standard for most homes.

🔍 Backflow Testing by Season (Lake Tahoe Schedule)

District	Typical Testing Season	Deadline (Usually)
NTPUD	Spring–Early Summer	June 15
TCPUD	Spring	Variable
STPUD	Spring	July 1
TDPUD	Spring	June
IVGID	Late Spring	June 30
TMWA	Spring	June 30
ASCWD	Spring	June 15
LPWD	Spring	Varies

🧠 What Happens If You Skip It?

Failing to test your device as required can lead to:

• Fines or violation notices

• Water service disconnection

• Delays in permit renewals

• Risk of contaminating your property or neighborhood supply

• Possible HOA or insurance penalties

  
  

📍 Where We Offer Backflow Testing

We serve homes, rentals, and businesses throughout:

• Kings Beach, Tahoe Vista, Carnelian Bay

• Tahoe City, Homewood, Tahoma

• Truckee, Glenshire, Donner Lake

• Incline Village, Crystal Bay, Reno, Sparks

• South Lake Tahoe, Meyers, Stateline, Carson City

We also specialize in primary residences, businesses, vacation rentals, absentee homeowners, and HOA-managed communities.

✅ Backflow Testing Made Easy

At Alpine Backflow Testing, we make annual testing fast, professional, and stress-free:

• Certified in both California and Nevada

• Direct report submission to your water district

• Same-day service in most cases

• Transparent pricing and fast communication

📞 Call or Text: 530-608-7898

📧 Email: info@alpinebackflow.com

🌐 Book Using Our Contact Form