Frequently asked questions
Please see below for some answers to our most commonly asked questions. If you still can't find what you are looking for, please contact us, and we'll be happy to get you the answers you seek.
What do i need to bring to class?
Individuals taking the 40 hr course: Bring a pen/pencil for note-taking, and a highlighter. We often emphasize certain details from the course manual that you may find helpful to highlight in preparation for the written exam.
Individuals taking the 8 hr recertification course: Bring a pen or pencil for the written exam. If you have any questions from the study-guide, we recommend you bring in the review packet to ask your questions. For the hands-on exam, bring your gauge, sight-tube, and bleed-valve. If you do not have one to bring in for the test, we have equipment that you may rent.
Individuals taking the 8 hr recertification course: Bring a pen or pencil for the written exam. If you have any questions from the study-guide, we recommend you bring in the review packet to ask your questions. For the hands-on exam, bring your gauge, sight-tube, and bleed-valve. If you do not have one to bring in for the test, we have equipment that you may rent.
what should i wear to class?
Our wet-lab training is held outdoors. We often set-up under a ramada, but the Arizona heat will still get to you. Please dress appropriately for outdoor work. There is also a chance that you will get wet during the wet-lab. We suggest wearing clothes that will easily dry, and shoes that won't get wet or slip.
Where is the tucson class?
North West Fire Training Center, 5125 N Camino De Fuego, Tucson, 85743Park in the visitor parking lot and then follow the AABP signs we set out to get to the classroom. We will also send out an email a week before the class starts with a map to the class location.
where is the peoria class?
Peoria: Beardsley Treatment Plant, 19980 N. 111th AvePark in the visitor parking lot and then enter the main office entrance. Please sign-in at the front desk. The classrooms will be through the left double-doors. We will also send out an email a week before the class starts with a map to the class location.
where is the surprise class?
Surprise: SGTC 13659 W. Cactus Road Park in the visitor parking lot and follow the AABP signs we set out to get to the classroom. We will also send out an email a week before the class starts with a map to the class location.
what time does the class start?
Individuals taking the 40 hr course: The class starts at 8am, Monday - Thursday.
Individuals taking the 8 hr recertification course: Monday class starts at 8 am - you will take the practical exam. Tuesday class starts at 12:30pm for the written exam.
do i need my own equipment?
Individuals taking the 40 hr course: No equipment is needed. We provide all tools, and test equipment for your hands-on training and exam.
Individuals taking the 8 hr recertification course: Yes! Please bring your own calibrated gauge, sight-tube, and bleed-valve for the hands-on exam. If you are unable to bring your own equipment, we have equipment for rent.
how difficult is the class for someone without any backflow experience?
It's a tough course because of the amount of information that we cover so that you are compliant with Arizona's rules and regulations. However, we have multiple practice quizzes, and HW assignments for your to practice. Also, our in-class lectures have a lot of repetition to help drill the content into your heads. We also spend a lot of time in the wet-lab, with no time limits. Our instructors are out there to demonstrate and answer any questions or challenges you encounter. Our goal is for you to be successful! So don't worry about being new to backflow. We'll make sure you get all the practice and preparation you need to be successfully certified.
My existing certification has expired. can i still take the recertiifcation course?
Yes, you can take the 8-hr recertification course.
i need to recertify - which course can i take? the 40hr or 8 hr?
You are welcome to take either the 40hr course or the 8hr course. The 40hr course will be useful if you would like to have a refresher on the rules, regulations, and BFA trouble-shooting. If you are feeling confident in your BFA knowledge, and do not need an in-person refresher, you can opt for the 8-hr course. For the 8-hr course, we will email you a review packet that you can study in preparation for the written-exam.
what is the difference between the exam offered for the 8hr course and 40hr course?
The 40-hr course written exam is a 100 question, multiple-choice exam. The 8-hr course written exam is a 50 question, multiple choice exam. Both exams require a minimum of a 70% to pass.
what do i need to do to pass the class?
To pass the class and earn your BF certification, you need to pass (1) the practical, hands-on exam. To pass this, you need to successfully test 4 different backflow assemblies, without any error in your procedure. You may not have any notes or reference material during this hands-on exam. (2) the written-exam. To pass this, you need to achieve a minimum of a 70%. This exam is closed note, closed book. You have 2 hours to complete the written exam.
i've passed the course. when will i receive my certificate?
As soon as you successfully pass both the hands-on and written exam, you will receive your certificate at the end of the course. You will leave with it, in-hand.
i've passed the course and have a certificate. Now what?
Congratulations on passing. Remember, you cannot go out into the field and just begin testing assemblies! You need to register yourself and your equipment with the municipality (water purveyor) for which you will be testing.
do we get a lunch break?
Yes. Lunch breaks are typically 11:30 - 12:30.
how many hours is the course?
The 40hr course is designed to include HW time and on-your-own study. In-person class instruction is typically 8am - 2 or 3pm, depending on how long you want to do your hands-on training in the wetlab. The remainder of the day, you are assigned HW and sections from the manual to study.
can i earn PDH?
Yes. If you are enrolled in the 40hr course, you may earn 40PDH. For those enrolled in the 8hr course, you may earn 8PDH.
i signed up for class but now i can't make it. what are my options?
Option 1: Cancel your enrollment. If you cancel before 1 week of the class start date, you will receive full reimbursement
Option 2: Request rollover of your enrollment to a later course date. This may only be done if you request a rollover >1week to class start date. Placement in a later class date will be based upon that course's enrollment number.
Option 3: Send an alternate person in substitution. Please call or email to inform us of the substitution.
Option 3: Cancel your enrollment. There is no reimbursement for cancellation made within 1 week or less of the class start date.
Option 2: Request rollover of your enrollment to a later course date. This may only be done if you request a rollover >1week to class start date. Placement in a later class date will be based upon that course's enrollment number.
Option 3: Send an alternate person in substitution. Please call or email to inform us of the substitution.
Option 3: Cancel your enrollment. There is no reimbursement for cancellation made within 1 week or less of the class start date.