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A cheap backflow preventer cost me a $500 fine from the city inspector
I put a generic one from a big box store on a small office building's irrigation line last fall. The inspector came through for the annual check this spring and failed it on the spot, said it wasn't approved for commercial use. The fine was $500 and I had to eat the cost of the part and my time to swap it out with a proper Wilkins unit. Anyone know a good supplier for approved assemblies that won't break the bank?
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wren8062mo ago
The Wilkins unit you swapped in is a good one, but it's also a specific brand name. The key detail is the ASSE 1013 approval for reduced pressure assemblies. Any brand with that stamp should pass. I've had good luck with Watts and Febco models too, they're often a bit cheaper than Wilkins at supply houses. Just make sure the box or tag clearly lists that ASSE 1013 rating for commercial use.
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david_henderson62mo ago
Ouch, that's a brutal lesson on why you don't skimp on code parts! @wren806 is totally right about the ASSE stamp being the real key. It's funny how a tiny missing stamp can cost more than just buying the right thing in the first place. The inspector probably sees that cheap box store model and just starts writing the ticket without even looking up.
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masondixon4d ago
Honestly just looking at that cheap box store model from across the room probably makes an inspector grab his pad and start writing. I swear they have a sixth sense for spotting that stuff too, like they can smell the lack of a proper ASSE stamp from fifty feet away. Ngl sometimes I think they get a little too much joy out of catching those penny pinching installs.
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