What you need to know about Cross-Connections and Backflow
- Water is ordinarily distributed in one direction: from the supplier to the consumer. However, it is possible, and not all that uncommon for this to be changed by various hydraulic conditions. The flow of water may be effectively reversed, flowing from the consumer to the water supplier. This is called Backflow. The water supplier is then faced with the problem of having water introduced into the potable water distribution system from a source it cannot control: the consumer. If this consumer happens to have non-potable substances (those not suitable for human consumption) on the premise, these substances could find their way into the customer’s water pipes when backflow occurs. These substances could, in turn, get into the water distribution system. This causes contamination or pollution of the water distribution system.
- The physical connections between drinking water pipes and substances which are not meant for consumption are called cross-connections. To control these cross-connections and prevent backflow, a Backflow Preventer must be installed at the point of the cross-connection. These backflow preventers must be tested and inspected upon installation and yearly to determine their continued efficacy to prevent backflow.
Potential Hazards of not having a Backflow Prevention Device
- Contamination or pollution of a water system is usually brought about by a cross-connection to any system containing auxiliary water supplies which may be polluted or contaminated; irrigation systems which may be polluted or contaminated with fertilizers, pesticides or other objectionable materials. Thus, using a hose-attached sprayer for application of pesticides, solvents, cleaning products, etc; flushing a car’s cooling system with a garden hose; or filling a swimming pool can create situations where cross-connections can occur. Without proper protection, devices as useful as your garden hose have the potential to poison your home’s water supply.
- In fact, over half of the nation’s cross-connections involve unprotected garden hoses!
Illinois Law
- Illinois law requires a licensed plumber who has also obtained an additional CCCDl License (Cross-Connection Control Device Inspector) to certify, repair, replace and install a backflow prevention device.
- Our licensed technicians are very knowledgable in this field and will explain the procedures of testing and answer any questions you may have. We guarantee every backflow device will be in compliance with state and local EPA Laws
- Wash Basins & Service Sinks
- Hose Bibs
- Irrigation Sprinkler Systems
- Auxiliary water supplies
- Photo developing equipment
- Boilers
- Swimming pools
- Solar Heating Systems
- Fire Protection Systems
- Commercial Soap Dispensers
- Commercial Dishwashers
