Backflow Testing for Autofill - What Pool Owners in Austin Need To Know
If you have a pool with an Autofill system (an upgrade many of our clients choose), there’s one small but important thing to remember each year: backflow testing.
What is Backflow Testing?
Backflow testing is a simple check to make sure the water in your pool isn’t flowing backward into the city’s water supply. That might sound odd—but under certain rare conditions, like a sudden drop in water pressure, it’s possible for water to flow the wrong way. And if that happens, chemicals from your pool could mix with drinking water. That’s a big no-no.
That’s why Austin Water requires annual testing of all backflow prevention devices. These devices — sometimes referred to as an “RPZ” or Reduced Pressure Zone device — are installed when a pool is connected to an Autofill system, which keeps your pool’s water level topped off automatically.
Why Is It Required?
The City of Austin takes water quality seriously (as they should!), and they require this test every year to make sure your backflow device is working properly. It’s not just a pool thing—any irrigation system, commercial building, or anything tied to the water system in a similar way has to do this too.
Did You Get a Letter in the Mail?
If you’ve received a letter from Austin Water reminding you to schedule a backflow test, or if you’ve received mail from a testing company offering to handle it for you, that’s normal—and legit.
The city sends out annual reminders to keep homeowners in compliance. And many licensed testing companies will send out mailers around the same time to advertise their services. You are not being scammed—these letters are just part of the city’s routine process.
Who Can Do the Test?
Only licensed testers who are approved by the City of Austin can perform a backflow test. There are plenty of local companies that offer this service, and most handle everything, including filing the paperwork with the city.
As of 2025, the cost usually ranges from $80 to $120, depending on the provider.
How Do I Find a Tester?
You can search for a City of Austin–approved backflow tester on Austin Water’s website. You’re free to choose any company from the approved list, and many will even send you a reminder next year when it’s time to retest.
Need a Hand?
If you’re a Texas Tiny Pools client and you’re not sure whether you have an Autofill system or need a backflow test, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to check our records and point you in the right direction.
