Backflow Prevention: An Overview
Have a backflow device? Let us know by completing the “Backflow Prevention Residential Form”. If you’re a commercial customer requesting an exemption, fill out the “Commercial Backflow Prevention Exemption Form”. If you have questions about Backflow Prevention, please review the below information for more details.
Backflow Prevention
Residential Form
Click here to download the Backflow Prevention Residential Form.
Commercial Backflow Prevention Exemption Form
Click here to download the Backflow Prevention Exemption Form.
We are pleased to partner with Backflow Solutions Inc. (BSI) to manage test records and assist you with annual backflow device testing. BSI provides customers reminders, guidance, and resources to help you stay on top of your backflow prevention device. If you have any questions related to backflow prevention, please reach out to BSI’s customer service center at 888-966-6050 or support@backflow.com
What is Backflow?
Backflow is when a drop in the incoming water pressure allows a reverse flow from a homeowner’s plumbing system back into the public water system. For example, if you have a garden hose submerged to fill a bucket, Jacuzzi, fish tank, etc., and the water system suddenly loses pressure, the flow of water can be reversed, sucking any contaminants in the water backwards into the system.
A Cross-Connection is any physical connection between a possible source of contamination and the public water system. For example, if a homeowner uses a cistern or an old well for outdoor watering, it cannot be connected to pipes that are connected to the public water system. Even with a bypass valve in place, it is prohibited.
Why is Preventing Backflow Important?
Cross connection control is extremely important in public water systems as it is a matter of public health and safety. Many contamination issues in public water systems, including bacteria from sewage, are not due to the water source but are due to cross-connections. Therefore, it is very important that all customers are aware of the dangers and take necessary precautions. We ask all customers to notify us if they currently have or require a backflow prevention device to safeguard against these potential hazards. For comprehensive information and support, including how to identify if you need a backflow prevention device or submit an existing device, please complete and submit the form included on this webpage
Backflow Prevention Frequently Asked Questions
What is Backflow? +
Backflow is a reversal of the normal flow of water – from the customer side of the meter into the water system, possibly introducing potentially hazardous contaminants into the public water supply. There are two types of backflow events – back pressure backflow and back siphonage backflow.
What is backpressure backflow? +
Backpressure occurs when the pressure on the customer side of the meter is higher than the supply pressure in the public water system. This can occur in many ways such as customer installed pumps, temperature increases in boilers or hot water heaters, and elevation differences.
What is back siphonage backflow? +
Back siphonage occurs when there is a reduction in water pressure in the public drinking water distribution system. This can occur by open fire hydrants for fire fighting or a water main break.
What is a cross connection? +
Cross connection is a physical or potential connection between potable water supply and non-potable water system. Backflow can occur through cross connections.
What are some examples of cross connections? +
- A hose submerged in polluted or contaminated water.
- A private well or pump that is directly connected to potable water system.
- A heating boiler with chemical treatment added to prevent internal corrosion is connected directly to the water supply for make-up water.
- An underground lawn sprinkler system is directly connected to the water supply system.
- A fountain or swimming pool has a direct connection with the water system for filling.
- A home pressure washer that is directly connected to the potable water supply system.
- In each of these examples, a drop in water pressure could draw contaminants (Chemicals, fertilizer, soapy water, bacteria) back into your pipes and into the public water supply.
How do I know if I need a backflow prevention device? +
A certified plumber can visit your property to complete a customer service inspection (CSI) and complete a premise survey for backflow requirements. They will identify potential or actual cross connections and provide service to install the appropriate backflow device.
Is there a general compliance schedule and process? +
Yes, your backflow device must be in compliance with Central States Water Resources’ (CSWR) Cross Connection Control Policy (CCCP). Customers must notify CSWR of any new or existing cross connections and have a licensed plumber install the correct backflow prevention device. The device must also be tested annually, and the results of that testing must be submitted annually to CSWR by January 28th the following year. If a backflow prevention device does not pass the inspection, a licensed plumber must be used to complete repairs or replacement.
Who can install a backflow prevention device? +
A licensed plumber must be used to install, test, and repair any backflow prevention devices. Ask your local plumber for referrals.
Where should my backflow prevention device be located? +
Backflow devices must be installed on the customer’s side of the meter and installed in accordance with both state plumbing code and manufacturer specifications. It must be in such a place where inspection and maintenance can be completed easily and safely.
Who owns and is responsible for testing and maintenance of the backflow prevention device? +
The customer is responsible for ensuring that a licensed backflow prevention technician installs, tests, certifies, and maintains the backflow prevention device. CSWR will send reminder letters twice annually to remind customers of testing deadlines. Reminder, after a FAILED backflow prevention device test, the device must be re-tested immediately after repairs.
Why must a backflow prevention device be tested annually? +
Backflow prevention devices have many moving parts that can wear overtime, annual testing ensures that the device is function properly and will stop a backflow event.
If you identify any cross-connections that cannot be eliminated you must install a backflow prevention device to ensure continued water service. Please submit your annual Backflow Field Test Report to env.comp@cswrgroup.com.
Additional resources are available from the American Backflow Prevention Association at https://www.abpa.org/.
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