Customer Information
Backflow Device Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is backflow?
Backflow is the reverse flow of water in any pipeline, causing non-potable water to flow into the public water supply. Water that is always under pressure can only flow in one direction. If a water main were to break, the pressure in the water main could drop causing water to flow towards the point of lowest pressure. Backflow devices prevent the entry of possible harmful substances into the drinking water supply.

What are backflow prevention devices?
Backflow prevention devices are used to protect our water supply from contamination due to backflow. Without these preventative devices, water could become contaminated and not be safe for consumption.

Do I have a backflow prevention device?
Backflow devices can be found in houses with pools and/or irrigation systems, restaurants and medical facilities. All of the plumbing system connections require a backflow device.
All commercial properties are required to have a backflow prevention device. Residential properties with an irrigation system are required to have a backflow prevention device. In most residential applications, the backflow prevention device can be found by the curb in a separate box by your water meter. Commercial installations can be found at the curb or inside the building.

Why do I need to have my device tested?
Backflow prevention devices degrade over time and therefore must be tested annually to ensure the device is in complete working order.

*At this time, residential properties with pools or irrigation systems are required to only have a backflow test performed upon installation.

How do I get my Commercial backflow prevention device tested?
Georgetown Utility Systems sends notifications, via our vendor, VEPO, LLC, to businesses 30-60 days before their testing is due.

Once you receive a notice, you will need to do the following:
1. Hire a registered backflow tester (access to registered testers can be located here).
2. Have the registered tester submit the paperwork via VEPO, LLC.

The backflow tester will need to:
1. Perform the required test
2. Submit the test through VEPO, LLC  here.
3. Submit the fee of $11.50 per test report via the VEPO website

Tester Information

Backflow Device Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What has changed?
We will be implementing a process change to take advantage of an online backflow management system for entry and storage of Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) approved Backflow Test & Maintenance and CSI reports. Georgetown Utility Systems has partnered with VEPO, LLC to provide this online system.

When does the change happen?
Georgetown Utility Systems will start using this system as of March 26, 2018.

Where do I go to submit my backflow device test?
All tests will need to be submitted by the BPAT into the VEPO online system here.

What does the new process look like?

On the VEPO website, the backflow tester will:

• Create an account – each tester will have their own password protected login to the system
• Register with VEPO – for testers already registered with VEPO, simply add Georgetown to your account
• Register your license – VEPO will verify your license and validate your account
• Register your test guages
• Enter Test & Maintenance, CSI reports into the online system
• Checkout
• The fee is $11.50 per test report submitted and is payable via the VEPO online system

Does Georgetown Utility Systems still take paper copies?

Testers will no longer be able to submit paper backflow Test & Maintenance CSI reports to Georgetown Utility Systems. All paperwork must be submitted through the VEPO online system.

Please click on the VEPO logo for more information.