Backflow Testing in Alpine, CA

Signs to call a plumber

• Padre Dam sent a notice about an assembly on your account
• A well and a district connection both feed the same property
• Water leaks from a relief port, cap or cracked body
• An irrigation or orchard line gained a fertilizer or chemical injector
• A cold night left the brass split or bulging
• You are adding a fire sprinkler system to a new or remodeled home

Local conditions in Alpine

Alpine is an unincorporated East County community, and its water picture is unusual. According to the County's Alpine Community Plan environmental report, Padre Dam Municipal Water District serves only the central-western part of the community, inside the San Diego County Water Authority boundary. The rest, about 81 percent of the plan area by land, depends on groundwater from private wells or small water systems.

Backflow programs are run by water suppliers. For a Padre Dam account, the district decides whether an assembly is needed and how often it is tested; its details did not show up in what we reviewed, so call Padre Dam (619-448-3111) and ask. A home that runs only on its own well is not connected to a public system, so a utility testing program does not reach it, though protecting the well from its own irrigation or chemical lines is still sensible. Where a property has both a well and district water, keeping them apart is exactly what a backflow device is for. If you are on a small water system, ask its operator.

Alpine's median home was built in 1986, and about 38 percent of homes predate 1980. Higher elevation means colder nights than the coast. Permits for new plumbing work go through the County of San Diego, as Alpine is unincorporated.

What affects the cost

• Whether a device exists already or has to be added
• Assembly type: double check, RP or vacuum breaker
• Repairs after a failed test, including freeze damage
• Distance and terrain to reach the device on a rural lot
• Permit and inspection for new piping

What happens when you call

You will be connected with an independent plumber who works in Alpine. Tell them whether you are on Padre Dam water, a well, a small water system or a mix, and what the device protects. If a line is leaking badly, close the valve that feeds it.