Englewood Utilities requires backflow assemblies at all cross-connections on commercial and multifamily properties, with each assembly tested every year by a certified tester and results submitted by August 15. If you need a test, repair or replacement, call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Englewood.
How Englewood handles backflow
Englewood runs its own water utility, independent of Denver Water, drawing South Platte River water with McLellan Reservoir for storage and treating it at the Allen Water Treatment Plant. Englewood Utilities also runs the Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control program, which the state health department regulates.
The program's core rules: commercial and multifamily properties need backflow prevention assemblies at every cross-connection, each assembly gets a test every year from a certified backflow prevention assembly tester, and results are due by August 15. Owners who need more time can request an extension at [email protected].
Englewood's building stock is old. The median home was built in 1964, and about two-thirds predate 1980. Apartment buildings, older storefronts along South Broadway and the hospital district around Swedish Medical Center and Craig Hospital all have water connections that may need protection. Englewood Utilities also serves some customers outside city limits, and those customers fall under the same utility.
Which assembly fits which hazard
| Assembly | Protects against | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Double check valve assembly | Low-hazard backflow | Some fire lines, low-risk building services |
| Reduced pressure assembly | High-hazard backflow | Boilers, chemical feeds, commercial kitchens, irrigation |
| Pressure vacuum breaker | Back-siphonage only | Sprinkler systems |
Signs a test or repair is due
- A reminder from Englewood Utilities about the August 15 deadline
- The relief valve on an RP assembly drips or dumps
- A building manager or HOA needs a passing report
- A failed result from last year was never fixed
- Frost damage on an outdoor device
Seasonal timing
Because results are due in mid-August, testing early in the summer gives room for parts and a retest. Older buildings can have assemblies that are hard to find parts for, which takes extra time. Outdoor devices should be drained before the first freeze, and any that froze should be checked before the next test. For water emergencies, Englewood Utilities answers at 303-762-2635 during business hours and 303-762-2650 after hours.
Owners of older apartment buildings should also plan for the paperwork. A tester can only file a result for an assembly they can find and reach, so clear storage away from mechanical rooms and have keys ready for locked vaults before the visit.
Backflow Testing questions in Englewood
Is there a due date for the yearly test report?
How often does a backflow assembly need to be tested here?
What separates an RPZ assembly from a double check?
Does a home fire sprinkler or boiler change the backflow rules?
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