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 What is Backflow?
Backflow is the reversal of flow of a non-potable water supply into the piping of a public potable water supply which occurs when the conditions inside of the public water system change, causing the water to flow in the opposite direction. Backflow can easily cause potable water to become contaminated and unsafe for human consumption.
 Natural Contaminants
All sources of drinking water contain some naturally occurring contaminants. At low levels, these contaminants generally are not harmful in our drinking water. A few naturally occurring minerals may actually improve the taste of drinking water and may even have nutritional value at low levels.
Common Sources of Pollution
- Micro-organisms (wild- life and soils)
- Radionuclides (underlying rock)
- Nitrates and nitrites (nitrogen compounds in the soil)
 Heavy metals (mining, construction, underground rocks containing arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, and selenium)- Fluoride
- Bacteria and nitrates (human and animal wastes, septic tanks and large farms)
- Fertilizers and pesticides (anywhere crops or lawns are maintained)
- Industrial products and wastes (local factories, industrial plants, gas stations, dry cleaners, leaking underground storage tanks, landfills, and waste dumps)
- Household wastes (cleaning products, oil, paint, paint thinner)
- Lead and copper (household plumbing materials)
- Water treatment chemicals (wastewater treatment plants)
Tips for Preventing Backflow & Keeping Drinking Water Clean
Don’t
- Submerge hoses in buckets, pools, tanks, sinks or ponds
- Use spray attachments without backflow prevention device
- Connect waste pipes from water softeners or other treatment systems to the sewer or submerged drain pipes
- Use a hose to unplug blocked toilets or sewers
Do
- Keep the ends of hoses clear of all possible contaminants
- Install hose bib type vacuum breakers
- Install approved backflow prevention assembly on underground lawn irrigation system (plumbing permit required)
- E
 ducate others on the importance of Backflow Prevention
Did You Know?
Common Household Hazards include Chemical Spray Applicators, Submerged Hoses and Underground Lawn Irrigation Systems and the use of Cleaning Products.
Resources
List of Certified Testers
Backflow Test & Maintenance Form
Area Plumbers
Questions? Call Utilities Maintenance at 938-5249
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