Specialty plumbing help in Central Florida
Backflow Preventer Repair in Orlando & Central Florida
Tell us what is happening. We will find the cause, explain your options, and handle backflow preventer repair with care.
65+ years serving Central Florida
Licensed local service team
Fast scheduling and clear communication
Service Overview
Backflow Preventer Repair With Clear Answers Before Work Begins
A backflow preventer is one of the most critical safeguards in your plumbing system. When it fails, contaminated water from irrigation lines, fire suppression systems, or industrial equipment can reverse course and enter your clean water supply — putting your family, tenants, or customers at risk. In Florida, most commercial properties and many residential properties with irrigation systems are required by code to have an annually tested, functioning backflow prevention device. A failed inspection or a visible device issue is not something you can afford to ignore.
Lapin Services is a licensed plumbing contractor (CFC1428594) with 65+ years of experience serving homeowners, property managers, and businesses across Central Florida. Our certified technicians diagnose and repair all makes and models of backflow prevention assemblies — including pressure vacuum breakers, double check valve assemblies, and reduced pressure zone devices. We repair the problem, retest the device, and provide the documentation your water authority requires. One call. One company. Problem handled.
Problems We Solve
Common Backflow Preventer Repair Problems We Fix
You do not have to diagnose the problem yourself. These are common issues we help confirm, explain, and repair.
Failed Annual Test
Florida water authorities require annual backflow preventer testing. If your device failed its inspection — or was never tested — Lapin's licensed technicians diagnose the cause of failure, perform the necessary repairs, and conduct a passing retest with full documentation submitted on your behalf.
Worn or Stuck Check Valves
The internal check valves inside a backflow assembly open and close under pressure during normal operation. Over time, debris, scale buildup, or corrosion can cause them to stick open, not seal fully, or fail to operate at the correct differential pressure — triggering a failed test or allowing backflow to occur.
Relief Valve Constantly Discharging
On reduced pressure zone (RPZ) devices, a continuously dripping or flowing relief valve is a clear sign the assembly is not holding the required pressure differential. Left unrepaired, this wastes water, can cause property damage, and indicates the device is no longer protecting your water supply.
Leaking Body or Fittings
Freeze damage, physical impact, age, or improper installation can cause the housing or connecting fittings of a backflow preventer to crack or leak. Even minor leaks can escalate into significant water damage and must be addressed before the next test cycle.
Pressure Loss Across the Assembly
A significant drop in downstream water pressure often points to a partially closed shutoff cock, a fouled strainer, or internal component damage inside the backflow assembly. Lapin technicians identify the exact source and restore proper flow without unnecessary component replacement.
When to Call
Signs Your Plumbing System Needs Professional Attention
If you notice any of these signs, call Lapin. We will find the cause and explain what needs to happen next.
You Received a Failed Test Notice
If your water authority or a third-party tester has issued a failed backflow test report, you are typically required to repair and retest within a set timeframe — often 30 days. Lapin can schedule your repair promptly and submit all required documentation to restore compliance.
Water Is Dripping or Discharging From the Device
Visible water dripping from the relief valve port or pooling beneath the assembly is not normal operation. It signals that the device is no longer maintaining proper pressure separation and needs immediate inspection.
Discolored or Odd-Tasting Water
If your tap water has changed color, smell, or taste, backflow contamination is one possible cause. A functioning backflow preventer prevents non-potable water from entering your supply line — if it has failed, contaminants from irrigation or other sources may have entered the system.
Reduced Water Pressure at Fixtures
Unexplained drops in water pressure throughout a building or property — especially downstream of the backflow assembly — may indicate an internal obstruction or component failure inside the device that is restricting flow.
The Device Is Old, Corroded, or Damaged
Backflow preventers exposed to the elements can corrode, crack from freeze events, or sustain impact damage from lawn equipment or vehicles. If your device looks physically deteriorated or has not been serviced in several years, a professional inspection is warranted before the next required test.
Our Process
What to Expect From Your Backflow Preventer Repair Visit
Tell us what is happening. We arrive prepared, explain the work clearly, and give clear pricing before work begins.
Step 1
Tell Us What Is Happening
Call or request service. You do not have to know exactly what failed; describe what you see, smell, hear, or need done.
Step 2
We Find the Cause
A Lapin technician or crew checks the issue, reviews the project, and explains what needs to be done in plain language.
Step 3
You Approve the Work
You get clear pricing and options before work begins, so you can make a confident decision.
Step 4
We Handle It With Care
We complete the approved work, respect your home, business, or jobsite, and keep you informed.
Step 5
We Stand Behind the Job
Before we leave, we confirm the work, answer questions, and make sure you know what to expect next.
Why Lapin
Why Central Florida Chooses Lapin for Backflow Preventer Repair
Our name is on every job. We respect your time, budget, property, and trust.
65+ Years of Plumbing Expertise
Lapin has served Central Florida since 1958. Our name is on every job, and we do the work in a way we can stand behind.
Clear Communication
We explain what we find, what it means, and what your options are before work begins.
Respect for Your Property
We protect the home, business, property, or jobsite and treat people the way we would want to be treated.
The Right Team for the Work
We handle plumbing, septic, drains, sewer, underground utilities, commercial service, and serious project work.
Care When It Matters
Every call affects a family, tenant, customer, business, property, or project. We do not take that lightly.
Related Services
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FAQs
Backflow Preventer Repair FAQs
How do I know if my backflow preventer needs to be repaired?
Common signs include a failed annual test notice from your water authority, visible water dripping from the relief valve, reduced water pressure downstream of the device, or visible corrosion or physical damage to the assembly. If you are unsure, Lapin can perform an inspection to assess the condition of your device.
Is backflow preventer testing required in Orlando and Central Florida?
Yes. Most water authorities in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and surrounding counties require annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies on commercial properties and residential irrigation systems connected to the potable water supply. Failure to test or repair a failed device can result in notices of violation or water service interruption.
What types of backflow preventers does Lapin repair?
Lapin technicians are trained to repair all common backflow prevention assembly types, including pressure vacuum breakers (PVB), double check valve assemblies (DCVA), reduced pressure zone assemblies (RPZ/RPBA), and atmospheric vacuum breakers (AVB). We service both residential and commercial devices.
Can the same company repair and retest my backflow preventer?
Yes. Lapin Services is licensed to both repair and retest backflow prevention devices. After repairs are completed, our technician performs a certified retest on-site and provides the documentation required by your water authority — so you do not need to coordinate a separate tester.
How long does a backflow preventer repair take?
Most backflow preventer repairs are completed in a single visit. Simple repairs — such as replacing worn seats, springs, or O-rings — typically take under an hour. More involved repairs, such as full internal kit replacements or frozen shutoff cocks, may take a bit longer. We will give you an honest time estimate once we assess your specific device.
Do you handle the paperwork and submit test results to the water authority?
Yes. Lapin Services handles all required test reporting. After the repair and passing retest, we provide you with a copy of the completed test report and submit results to your water authority as required — one less thing for you to manage.
What happens if my backflow preventer cannot be repaired and needs to be replaced?
If an assessment determines that your device is beyond repair — due to age, severe corrosion, or discontinued parts — Lapin can replace the entire assembly with a new, code-approved device and handle all associated permitting and documentation. We will always explain your options and associated costs before proceeding.
Do you service commercial properties and HOAs, not just residential homes?
Absolutely. Lapin Services works with property managers, HOAs, restaurants, office buildings, and commercial facilities throughout Central Florida. We understand the compliance and documentation requirements for commercial backflow assemblies and can coordinate inspections and repairs across multiple properties or units.
Schedule Service
Tell Us What Is Happening
Call Lapin or request service. We will get the right team moving, explain your options, and handle the work with care.