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Backflow doesn't have to be a big deal! Let's work together for safe water.
| Q | What is backflow? |
| A | The water distribution system is designed to keep the water flowing from the source to the customer. However, when hydraulic conditions within the system deviate from "normal" conditions, water flow can be reversed. When this backflow happens, contaminates can be siphoned into the water distribution system and affect everyone. |
| Q | What is backflow/backsiphonage? |
| A | When there is a sudden reduction in water pressure in the distribution system, such as during fire fighting, water main break, or a car hits a fire hydrant--water flow can be reversed. This is backflow. And, it can create a suction effect, drawing unsafe substances into the distribution system: backsiphonage. |
| Q | Is this backflow survey required? |
| A | Yes, once every five years each connection to the public water supply shall be evaulated (surveyed) to determine if any potential backflow hazards exist. This is a good time to check the water system in your building to make sure no changes have been made, even by accident, that could result in a cross connection with the sewer system or any potentially hazardous substance. |
| Q | What is a cross connection? |
| A | A permanent or temporary piping arrangement which can allow your drinking water to be contaminated should a backflow condition occur. For example, a hose laying in a baby swimming pool, or a weed killer sprayer attached to a garden hose. |
| Q | What do I do if my survey determines a cross connection? |
| A | There are several ways to correct a cross connection: air gap, reduced pressure zone device (rpz), pressure vacuum breaker (pvb), double check valve. Most residential connections, however, require only hose bibb vacuum breakers on older hose faucets, pvb on lawn sprinkler, or rpz on heating boiler. |
| Q | What is backflow testing? |
| A | Some backflow protection devices require testing periodically to make sure they are working. High hazard situations protected by an rpz require annual testing. Lawn sprinklers have a pvb which requires testing every five years. The City of York contacts you when it is time to test. |
| Q | Who does the testing? |
| A | A State and City certified Grade VI Operator is qualified to do the backflow testing when needed. Most of the plumbing shops in York have a certified person, with a testing machine, on their staff to do this work. This testing is at the expense of the customer. |
| Q | Why do I have to be concerned about backflow protection? |
| A | All water systems are mandated by state and federal laws to have a backflow protection program. York has met this requirement by Ordinance. Backflow Ordinance compliance by the customer is a condition of water service. |
| Q | Where can I get more information about backflow? |
| A | The City of York is eager to take the mystery out of backflow and help in any way possible. Call 402-363-2605. |
