Backflow Prevention: Protecting Your Lawn, Home, and Water Supply
When it comes to your home’s irrigation system, keeping your lawn green and your landscaping healthy is only part of the picture. What’s even more important—but often overlooked—is backflow prevention. Without a properly working backflow preventer, your sprinkler system could unintentionally allow contaminants like pesticides, fertilizers, or bacteria to flow backward into your home’s clean water supply. That’s a serious health risk, not just for you, but for your entire community.
Backflow prevention isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your home and family from hidden dangers in your water. And if you’re a homeowner in the Chicago area, you’ve likely heard about the importance of scheduling a sprinkler backflow test to stay up to code and ensure your system is working safely.
In this post, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about backflow prevention: what it is, how it works, why testing is so important, and how you can ensure your sprinkler system is protected by a certified expert.
What Is Backflow and Why Is It a Concern?
Backflow is exactly what it sounds like: the undesirable reversal of water flow in your plumbing system. Instead of flowing outward from your home through your sprinkler heads, water reverses direction—often due to a sudden drop in pressure—and pulls potentially contaminated water back into your clean water lines.
This might not sound like a big deal until you consider what’s in your yard. Lawn chemicals, pet waste, bacteria, and other pollutants can easily be introduced into your sprinkler system. If backflow occurs, those contaminants can end up in your home’s drinking water.
That’s a risk no one wants to take.
So how does it happen? Common causes include:
- A burst water main or nearby fire hydrant use, creating a sudden drop in pressure
- Faulty sprinkler valves or improperly installed systems
- Changes in city water supply pressure
In many cities and towns across Illinois, including the greater Chicago area, backflow prevention is mandated by law. Municipalities require homes with irrigation systems to install approved backflow preventer devices and have them tested annually by certified professionals.
What Is a Backflow Preventer and How Does It Work?
A backflow preventer is a mechanical device installed on your irrigation system that keeps contaminated water from flowing backward into the clean water supply. It acts as a one-way gate—allowing water to flow from the main line to your sprinkler system, but not the other way around.
There are a few different types of backflow preventers, but the most common for residential lawn irrigation systems are:
- Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA) – A simple and reliable option often used in areas where the risk level is moderate.
- Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Valve – A more complex device that offers extra protection, required in many municipalities due to its ability to detect and relieve pressure buildup.
Your backflow preventer is typically installed above ground, near where your irrigation system connects to the main water line. Its job is quiet but critical—it protects your family’s water every time your sprinklers run.
The Importance of a Sprinkler Backflow Test
Once your backflow preventer is installed, you’re not done just yet. Like any mechanical system, it needs regular inspection and testing to ensure it’s still doing its job.
A sprinkler backflow test is a certified process where a licensed technician checks that your backflow prevention device is functioning correctly. This is required annually by most municipalities, including many throughout Chicagoland. Failure to complete the test can result in penalties, service disconnection, or even fines.
Here’s why testing is so important:
- Safety: It confirms your home’s drinking water isn’t being contaminated
- Compliance: City and county ordinances require backflow testing for all irrigation systems
- Peace of Mind: You’ll know your system is operating efficiently and safely
- Documentation: A certified report will be filed with the city and provided to you for your records
Only licensed and certified professionals are permitted to conduct this testing, and that’s where we come in. At American National Sprinkler & Lighting, our team is fully certified to perform backflow testing and ensure your system meets all local requirements.
We make the process simple, efficient, and worry-free—so you can focus on enjoying your yard, not stressing about compliance or contamination.
Signs You Might Need Backflow Testing or Repair
While backflow testing is required annually, there are a few signs that might indicate your system needs attention sooner:
- Unusual water pressure – If your sprinkler system is experiencing inconsistent or low pressure, it could signal a backflow preventer issue.
- Discolored or foul-smelling water – This is a red flag that contaminants may have entered your water supply.
- Visible leaking around the backflow device – Any drips, corrosion, or pooling water near your device should be checked immediately.
- Recent landscaping or plumbing work – Disturbances to your irrigation system could compromise your backflow preventer.
- You’re unsure when it was last tested – If it’s been more than a year (or you’re not even sure the device was tested), now’s the time.
Even if everything seems to be functioning fine, remember: backflow prevention is a silent safeguard. When it fails, you may not realize it until it’s too late.
What to Expect During a Backflow Test
If you’ve never had a backflow test done before, don’t worry—it’s a quick and non-invasive process. Here’s what you can expect:
- Certified Technician Visit: One of our licensed professionals will arrive at your property and locate your backflow prevention device, usually near the main sprinkler shutoff valve.
- Testing the Device: Using specialized equipment, the technician will check each valve and component to ensure water is flowing in the correct direction and pressure is maintained. This usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
- Minimal Disruption: Water may be shut off briefly during the test, but the impact on your home or irrigation schedule is minimal.
- Pass or Fail:
- If the device passes: You’re good to go for another year.
- If it fails: We’ll provide a clear explanation and options for repair or replacement.
- Official Documentation: After the test, you’ll receive a report for your records, and we’ll submit any necessary documentation to your local municipality for compliance purposes.
With decades of experience serving homeowners across Chicagoland, American National Sprinkler & Lighting is the trusted name for backflow prevention and sprinkler system maintenance.
Our certified technicians understand local codes, municipal requirements, and the inner workings of irrigation systems inside and out.
When you work with us, you’re getting more than a test—you’re getting peace of mind. We pride ourselves on:
- Prompt, professional service
- Clear communication and easy scheduling
- Licensed, certified technicians with the latest training
- Thorough reporting and follow-through with municipalities
- Proven customer satisfaction from thousands of local homeowners
We know that clean, safe water is non-negotiable. That’s why we treat every system like it’s our own—and ensure yours is protected year-round.
Protect Your Water, Your Lawn, and Your Home
Backflow prevention might not be the flashiest part of your irrigation system, but it’s one of the most important. It keeps your water safe, your home up to code, and your lawn’s health from becoming a liability.
Whether you’re scheduling your annual sprinkler backflow test, installing a new system, or simply want to be sure your home is protected, we’re here to help.
👉 Don’t wait until it’s a problem. If it’s been over a year since your last backflow test—or if you’re unsure whether your system is compliant—contact American National Sprinkler & Lighting today.
Our certified team will take care of everything, so you can enjoy your outdoor space with complete confidence.