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Keep Your Water Supply Safe with GEM

Imagine turning on your tap or running your irrigation system, only to discover that water is flowing backward and potentially carrying contaminants into your home. It’s a scenario most homeowners don’t think about until it happens, but backflow can compromise your clean water supply and create serious health risks.

Whether it’s due to old plumbing, irrigation systems, or unexpected pressure changes, protecting your home’s water is essential. With decades of experience serving Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts, GEM Plumbing & Heating Services, LLC installs and maintains backflow preventers that keep your water flowing safely in the right direction.

Our licensed plumbers handle the entire process – from assessment to installation and maintenance – so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your water is protected.

(833) 222-2953

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(833) 222-2953

What Backflow Preventers Are and How They Work

Backflow preventers are specialized devices installed at strategic points in your plumbing system — such as the main water line, irrigation connections, or other high-risk points — to ensure water flows in only one direction. Using check valves and pressure differences, they operate automatically: when water pressure drops or reverses, the valve closes to stop contaminated water, bacteria, chemicals, or debris from flowing back into your clean supply. Many older homes or properties with irrigation systems, pools, or recent plumbing upgrades may not have them installed, which is why GEM evaluates your plumbing and recommends the right solution to keep your water safe and code-compliant.


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What to Expect During Backflow Preventer Installation

GEM makes installing a backflow preventer straightforward from the moment we arrive to the final safety check.

A licensed GEM technician starts by examining your plumbing layout, water pressure, and flow patterns. This helps us determine the right device and the best placement to protect your home’s water supply.

We walk you through the backflow preventer options available for your home, explaining how each works and which best fits your plumbing setup. You’ll receive honest, upfront pricing before we begin, so you can move forward confidently.

Our team installs the device with precision, making sure every connection meets local safety and plumbing codes. GEM handles all the technical details to ensure long-term protection.

Once installed, we fully test the system to confirm everything is working properly. We’ll show you how the device functions and share simple maintenance tips so you know exactly what to expect.

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What Our Customers Are Saying

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

4.6
Based on 9643 reviews
gilbert serra
9 hours ago
Very pleasant and very honest, and they cleaned up after their work and would definitely use them again.
Bob Strouse
10 hours ago
Great service, very clean and professional. Very happy with Gem.
Karen Gray
11 hours ago
Working with Nick to get all my bathroom faucets replaced was a pleasure. Karen Gray
Alyssa Zelman
12 hours ago
Great communication, went the extra mile, professional and friendly. Came out same-day, on-time. Def recommend!
Allan Barbash
13 hours ago
Great service he was very thorough.
Darlene ONeill
13 hours ago
Xavier was confident, efficient, knowledgeable, prompt and treated his trainee with respect.
Dale Abbott
16 hours ago
Great job. They know their “stuff”!
Jim Walsh
19 hours ago
Super fast response time (called at 4:00 on Monday and Mike & Chris were at the house at 11:15 on Tuesday). Mike and Chris were excellent, diagnosed the source of the odor (bad wax ring) and completed the job by 12:15.
Everything from the initial phone call to the quick response from our techs and the repair of our system was an A+! Would recommend to everyone.
GEM was one of only services that got back to me and scheduled me on the same day! Colin was quick, professional, and someone I felt safe having in my home. You get what you pay for!
Corey was outstanding , very helpful, informative and friendly !
Noemi Jordan
1 day ago
Khorey J. and his colleague did an excellent job inspecting our heating and cooling mini-split system. They took the time to explain the issues in detail and gave us peace of mind and at ease by ensuring that everything was working properly. They also explained and demonstrated when the condenser fan should turn on at various temperatures and settings. Both men were knowledgeable, professional, polite, and respectful. We have been customers of Gem Heating and Plumbing for many years, and, as always, they were there when we needed their services. Thank you, Gem Plumbing!
John O'Leary
1 day ago
Efficient and spot on always
Michael Hoff
1 day ago
John did a great job servicing our central heat pump and boiler. He was thorough and a great communicator. Thanks!
Joe Burgess
1 day ago
Great people Very professional Explanation of everything Excellent job
Patricia Criner
2 days ago
Very personable guys Joe and Landon did a thorough inspection and make sure I completely understood all options for the future
Cindy Mossman
2 days ago
Electrical replacements
Peter Rintels
2 days ago
Have used GEM several times. After some rough experiences with some other HVAC companies, I can say GEM has been consistently outstanding. Highly recommended.
We had an emergency service performed on Saturday, the technician Chris was professional and talked me through everything he was doing. I’d rate his overall work on a scale of 1-10 as over 10 because he was that awesome. What gets me is the pricing of the service. As I mentioned it was an emergency, and as the customer I want an itemized breakdown of parts and labor. I just called GEM and they mentioned they do not provide that. I will continue to call until I get the satisfaction I want on full disclosure of MY billing statement the was paid for in FULL by MYSELF. I know GEM reads these reviews and I want my fully itemized bill for services rendered.
Very satisfied with the service
Bill Cater
2 days ago
The GEM team, Richard (Rickey) and Gabriel along with the electrician were extremely professional. They cleaned up the entire work site with great care to ensure no dirt was left behind. Xavier was outstanding during the service call. happy and highly recommend.
Alyssa Nguyen
2 days ago
Josue & Mike were the two technicians that came and did the work for our home. They were absolutely amazing and did an amazing job! Took their time to make sure everything was done right.
We were not getting heat from our boiler. It was old and not working properly. Richard walked us through a new boiler purchased. Thanks.
Stephen Pratt
2 days ago
Kevin did a great job and explained everything he did to my boiler
Carol Ferrera
2 days ago
Great job! The technicians are kind, courteous, professional and knowledgeable. Thank you!!


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Common Signs You May Need a Backflow Preventer

Not every home requires a backflow preventer, but certain conditions make them essential.

Here are the signs that your water might be at risk:

Adding irrigation systems, remodeling, or updating water lines can increase the risk of backflow. Installing a backflow preventer protects these changes from compromising your clean water.

Homes with private wells are more vulnerable to contamination. A backflow preventer adds an important layer of protection.

Aging pipes and valves can increase the chances of reverse flow. Installing a backflow preventer can safeguard your home from potential water contamination.

Municipalities and insurance providers sometimes require backflow preventers, particularly if your home has irrigation, pools, or fire suppression systems. Meeting these requirements protects both your water supply and compliance status.

Other Plumbing Services GEM Offers

It’s not just backflow that can affect your safety; plumbing systems are complex, and they consist of a number of different appliances and piping systems.

At GEM, we’re here to help with it all. We understand your comfort and safety are at risk when your plumbing systems aren’t working properly. GEM offers a full range of plumbing services to keep your home running smoothly and your water systems reliable.

From faucets to fixtures, GEM can install and update all of the fixtures in your kitchen and bathroom. We make sure each installation is precise, functional, and built to last.

A properly working well pump is essential for clean, consistent water in your home. GEM can repair or replace your well pump system, keeping your water flowing reliably.

Protect your basement from flooding and water damage with GEM’s sump pump services. We install, repair, and maintain pumps so your home stays dry no matter the weather.

Why Homeowners Trust GEM for Backflow Preventer Installation

GEM combines local knowledge and a full-service approach to make sure your home’s water stays safe and protected.

Our licensed team of plumbers follows strict industry standards to install backflow preventers safely and reliably. You can trust that every installation is done correctly and meets code requirements.

With decades serving Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts homes, GEM understands local plumbing challenges and code requirements. We know the unique needs of New England homes and water systems.

GEM operates with 500+ trucks and 700 skilled employees, ensuring fast service and same-day appointments when needed. Our size allows us to respond quickly while maintaining consistent quality.

From installation to ongoing maintenance to repairs, GEM handles every step in-house so you don’t have to hire multiple contractors. You’ll enjoy a seamless, coordinated experience from start to finish.

We provide clear, upfront estimates, honest recommendations, and no-pressure advice so you can make informed decisions. GEM is committed to helping you understand your options and feel confident in your choices.

GEM installs backflow preventers with durability and future maintenance in mind. We ensure proper placement, easy access for testing, and compliance with local regulations, helping protect your water supply for years to come.

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(833) 222-2953


customer and technician interaction

Our GEM Family Cares for Your System’s Entire Life

Your homes HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems work hard all year. Regular maintenance keeps it running efficiently, quietly, and reliably for years to come.

Our Home Comfort Club makes maintenance easy with annual tune-ups, priority scheduling, and discounts on repairs. We catch problems before they become emergencies and keep your home’s systems running the way they should, year after year.


Contact GEM for Your Plumbing Safety Needs

Protecting your home’s water supply is critical, and GEM makes it simple.

With over 75 years of experience and a team of certified experts, we provide fast, professional service to keep your water flowing safely. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Backflow Preventer Installation

What exactly does a backflow preventer do?

A backflow preventer stops water from flowing backward into your clean water supply, keeping contaminants out. Properly installed devices protect your family’s health and ensure your water meets safety standards.

How often should a backflow preventer be inspected?

Annual inspections are recommended for backflow preventers to ensure compliance and peak performance. Regular checks also help identify minor issues before they become major problems.

Can I install a backflow preventer myself?

Professional installation is strongly recommended for backflow preventers. GEM ensures correct sizing, proper connection, and code compliance to prevent costly mistakes.

Will a backflow preventer affect my water pressure?

Properly installed backflow preventers maintain normal water flow. GEM calibrates each system to ensure it performs reliably so your household water needs are fully met.