Most Upper Marlboro addresses are outside the small incorporated town, and water service varies across the wide postal area. Where WSSC Water serves the home, testable assemblies on irrigation, residential fire sprinklers and chemically treated boilers must be tested every year and after installation, repair or relocation by a WSSC-registered plumber with cross-connection certification. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Upper Marlboro.
The Town of Upper Marlboro, the county seat, has only about 650 residents, while the Upper Marlboro postal area covers roughly 77 square miles of growing subdivisions and horse-farm countryside. WSSC runs water mains in the area, but outlying parcels may be on private wells, so start by confirming who supplies your water. Newer subdivisions and older farm properties can sit side by side here, and the answer can change from one road to the next. Once you know the supplier, the steps below cover what to do, whether the device protects a lawn, a barn line, a boiler or a fire sprinkler system.
What to do now
- Check your water bill. A WSSC bill means WSSC's cross-connection rules apply. No water bill likely means a private well.
- Locate the device. Irrigation assemblies sit on a riser outside; fire sprinkler double checks are usually at the riser in a basement or garage.
- Book a qualified tester. For WSSC homes, only a WSSC-registered plumber who is a certified cross-connection technician can test or repair testable assemblies.
- Plan for permits. Prince George's County says testable backflow devices need a permit when replaced, and WSSC issues all plumbing permits in the county.
- On a well, still protect the supply. Irrigation, livestock watering lines and chemical feeders can contaminate your own water without a proper device.
Signs and likely causes
| Sign | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Steady discharge at the relief port | Check not sealing or worn relief valve |
| Water at a vacuum breaker canopy | Worn poppet or air inlet seat |
| Weak pressure on a barn or yard line | Partly closed valve or stuck check |
| Cracked casting after winter | Freeze damage on an exposed device |
| Fire sprinkler riser device never tested | Overlooked at move-in; schedule a test |
Cost factors
- Type and size of the assembly
- Number of devices, including barn, irrigation and fire sprinkler lines
- Travel and access on larger rural properties
- Rebuild versus replacement, and the WSSC permit for a replacement
- Whether a well property needs a new device installed
The county's cross-connection line is 301-206-8601, and the Town of Upper Marlboro's own website points to the county for permitting questions.
Backflow Testing questions in Upper Marlboro
How do I know which water utility serves my address?
How often does a backflow assembly have to be tested here?
My home is on a private well. Does backflow still matter?
What happens if my assembly fails the test?
More plumbing services in Upper Marlboro
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