BAT Backflow Assembly Field Testing Procedures 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the first step when performing a field test on a backflow prevention assembly?
- Attach the test kit to the test cocks
- Close the #1 shutoff valve to isolate the assembly (Correct answer)
- Open the relief valve to bleed pressure
- Close the #2 shutoff valve and bleed downstream
Correct answer: Close the #1 shutoff valve to isolate the assembly
The #1 (upstream) shutoff valve is closed first to isolate the assembly from supply pressure before test equipment is attached.
Question 2: Which test cocks are used when field testing a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) assembly?
- Test cocks 1 and 2 only
- Test cocks 2 and 3 only
- Test cocks 1, 2, and 3 (Correct answer)
- Test cocks 1 and 3 only
Correct answer: Test cocks 1, 2, and 3
RPZ assemblies have three test cocks — #1 upstream of check valve 1, #2 in the zone between the checks, and #3 downstream of check valve 2 — all three are used during testing.
Question 3: What minimum differential pressure reading across check valve #1 on an RPZ assembly is required for a passing field test?
- 1.0 psi
- 3.0 psi
- 5.0 psi (Correct answer)
- 10.0 psi
Correct answer: 5.0 psi
USC and AWWA standards require check valve #1 on an RPZ assembly to hold a minimum differential of 5.0 psi to pass the field test.
Question 4: What is the purpose of the bypass needle valve on a backflow prevention test kit?
- To increase supply line pressure during testing
- To slowly equalize pressure between the high and low pressure hoses (Correct answer)
- To drain the test kit hoses after use
- To test the relief valve opening pressure
Correct answer: To slowly equalize pressure between the high and low pressure hoses
The bypass needle valve allows the tester to slowly bleed pressure between hoses for accurate differential gauge readings without spiking or damaging the gauge.
Question 5: What minimum differential pressure must each check valve hold during a field test of a Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA)?
- 0.5 psi
- 1.0 psi (Correct answer)
- 2.0 psi
- 5.0 psi
Correct answer: 1.0 psi
AWWA standards require each check valve in a DCVA to hold a minimum differential pressure of 1.0 psi during field testing.
Question 6: Before connecting test equipment to a backflow assembly's test cocks, the tester should verify that:
- Downstream system pressure exceeds 100 psi
- The assembly is installed at least 12 inches above grade
- The test cocks are open and free of debris (Correct answer)
- The relief valve has been manually opened
Correct answer: The test cocks are open and free of debris
Test cocks must be confirmed open and clear of mineral deposits or debris to ensure unobstructed pressure communication with the test kit.
Question 7: During field testing, a 'tight' shutoff valve is defined as one that:
- Is difficult to turn due to corrosion
- Does not allow water to pass through when in the closed position (Correct answer)
- Requires a special wrench to operate
- Is rated for pressures above 150 psi
Correct answer: Does not allow water to pass through when in the closed position
A 'tight' shutoff valve seals completely and allows no water to pass when closed, which is a required condition for valid field testing.
BAT Backflow Assembly Field Testing Procedures 1
What is the first step when performing a field test on a backflow prevention assembly?