Backflow Testing in Myrtle Beach

Certified Backflow Testing for Grand Strand Homes & Businesses Since 2003

Backflow is the unintended reversal of water flow in a plumbing system. When back-pressure or back-siphonage occurs, contaminants from irrigation lines, fertilizer injectors, or other non-potable sources can be pulled into your drinking water supply. For Grand Strand property owners, seasonal storm pressure fluctuations and coastal humidity add strain to plumbing systems year-round, making a properly functioning prevention assembly more than a regulatory checkbox. Since 2003, Swift Services has helped residential and commercial properties throughout Myrtle Beach and Horry County keep their water supply protected and their compliance paperwork filed on time.

Myrtle Beach Backflow Testing Requirements

South Carolina requires annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies under SCDES Regulation R.61-58.7 and the State Safe Drinking Water Act. Locally, the Grand Strand Water and Sewer Authority (GSWSA) administers the cross-connection control program for Myrtle Beach and Horry County. Cross-connection control is the regulatory framework utilities use to prevent contaminated water from entering the potable supply through physical connections between safe and non-safe water sources. All test results must be submitted to GSWSA on its official Backflow Device Test Report Form.

Testing must be performed by a tester holding a current SC DES certification, which requires both a written exam and a wet-lab practical component and must be renewed every three years. Assemblies must also appear on the SC DES List of Approved Backflow Prevention Assemblies. Skipping or delaying the annual test can result in fines or water service interruption.

When a Backflow Prevention Assembly Is Required

Requirements vary by property. The type of assembly and the testing obligation depend on the nature of the connection and the hazard it presents.

Common scenarios that trigger a backflow prevention requirement include:

• In-ground irrigation systems: Any irrigation system connected to the public supply requires a testable assembly. Low-hazard systems may use a double check valve assembly (DCVA) or pressure vacuum breaker (PVB); systems using fertilizer injectors or chemical concentrates require a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) assembly, which provides a higher level of protection.
• Fire suppression systems: Lines connected to the potable supply require backflow protection, and high-hazard systems are subject to annual testing of the installed assembly.
• Commercial properties: Food service, hospitality, and industrial operations with cross-connections to equipment that could introduce chemicals or non-potable water into the supply are subject to required testing.
• Properties with well or alternate water sources: When a well is tied into an irrigation system, an air gap separation between the irrigation system and the house service line is required to prevent contamination.

Warning signs that may point to a failing or absent backflow preventer include discolored or cloudy water, unusual odors or tastes, and visible leaks or discharge at the assembly location.

What to Expect During a Backflow Test in Myrtle Beach

A backflow test uses a calibrated differential pressure gauge to verify that the prevention assembly is performing correctly under live conditions. Whether your property has an RPZ, DCVA, or PVB, we assess the device’s performance, document the results, and handle the paperwork.

Here’s what the process looks like from your first call:

• Scheduling: We offer same-day appointments and 24/7 availability, with no extra fees for evening or weekend calls.
• On-site testing: Our technician arrives with calibrated test equipment, performs the pressure differential test, and inspects the assembly for visible wear or damage.
• Clear communication: We explain what we found, walk through your options, and answer your questions before any work begins.
• Compliance filing: When the device passes, we complete and submit the GSWSA Backflow Device Test Report Form on your behalf so you have documentation confirming compliance.
• Repair or replacement: If the device fails, we can repair or replace it and perform the re-test before filing the report. You won’t need a second contractor.

Why Grand Strand Property Owners Choose Swift Services

Single-trade irrigation companies handle backflow testing, but they stop there. Swift Services brings this compliance service under the same roof as plumbing, HVAC, and electrical, so one call handles more of your property’s needs. We’ve served the Grand Strand since 2003, are BBB-accredited, and have earned 5-star reviews from neighbors across Myrtle Beach, Horry County, and beyond.

Pricing differences matter too. We never charge by the hour, and there are no extra fees for evenings or weekends. Financing options are available for larger repairs or replacements, and we regularly offer coupons and special promotions. We’re licensed and insured, large enough to handle all your plumbing and home service needs, and still small enough to know our customers by name.

Schedule Your Backflow Test Today

Annual compliance testing doesn’t have to mean scheduling around a narrow service window or paying a premium for after-hours availability. Swift Services offers same-day appointments, evening and weekend calls at no extra charge, and complete handling of your GSWSA test report filing.