∨> 1.  What is backflow?

Water is intended to flow in one direction. When water flows in the opposite direction of its intended direction of flow it is called "backflow". When backflow occurs, drinking water is subject to potential contamination from the various systems and equipment to which the plumbing system is connected. Some of these systems such as irrigation systems, may allow contaminates to enter the drinking water system if they are not properly protected from backflow. Backflow occurs anytime the pressure in the plumbing system is lowered. When the plumbing system is turned off for repair or if there is a main water line break, a pressure loss in the plumbing distribution system is created. Everything connected to the plumbing system will then flow back towards where the repair is being made or to where the break is. Once the water is turned back on all the water that didn't drain out is then pushed back into the piping system or buildings from which it came, only now it may be contaminated.

To prevent backflow from contaminating your water system Uniform Plumbing Code requires anything connected to a plumbing system that may allow contaminates to backflow into the potable water system to be protected with appropriate backflow prevention protection. The best method to determine if your home or business is properly protected from backflow is to have a cross-connection control survey performed.

∨> 2.  What is a cross-connection?

A cross-connection is a connection to a plumbing system that could allow contaminants into the drinking water portion of the plumbing system. Cross-connections which are not properly protected with the appropriate backflow protection have led to documented incidents in which people have become sick and some incidents that have even killed people who drank the contaminated water. Cross-connection incidents are entirely preventable with the implementation and maintenance of a cross-connection control program.

∨> 3.  What is a backflow prevention assembly?

A backflow prevention assembly is a mechanical, testable assembly installed where there are cross-connections to prevent backflow. Assemblies are made by different manufacturers and there are different models, types and sizes. The type of backflow prevention assembly used is determined by the type of cross-connection the plumbing system may be subject to and the degree of hazard the connection presents to the drinking water system.

Backflow assemblies installed at the water service connection or meter are required by California Code of Regulations (CCR) (Title 17, Section 7605(c)) and are required to be tested annually by the Water Supplier. Water Suppliers are required by the Drinking Water Division of the State Water Resources Control Board to make sure these assemblies are tested annually.

Backflow assemblies installed internally to protect the drinking water system are required to be annually by the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) . This requirement is the property owner's responsibility. However, enforcement of this requirement varies in different city and county jurisdictions. Many cities do not send an annual notice to the property owner to have their internal assemblies tested as they do for service connection assemblies. This means that many property owners are not in compliance with this aspect of the UPC leaving them open for potential litigation should someone become ill from drinking water that may have become contaminated through an unprotected cross-connection.

∨> 4.  What does a backflow prevention assembly look like?

∨> 5.  Where would the backflow assembly for my property be located?

Backflow assemblies used to protect the main potable water supply from the city to the property are normally located directly after the water meter. Backflow assemblies used to protect the people who use the water within a property will be located at the point of connection to each piece of equipment that could potentially contaminate the drinking water system.

∨> 6.  What is an air gap?

An air gap is a physical, vertical separation between the end of a potable (drinking) water supply pipeline and a receiving vessel like a tank or sink basin. An air gap must be at least twice the diameter of the supply pipe measured vertically above the receiving vessel. In no case can the air gap be less than one inch.

The most common place an air gap would be used is a kitchen or bathroom faucet. The physical separation of space between where the water comes out of the faucet and where it collects in the sink or wash basin keeps the drinking water that comes out of the faucet from being contaminated by the water sitting in the wash basin. The air gap prevents the water that collects in the basin from potentially being siphoned back into your drinking water system.

∨> 7.  I have a backflow assembly inside of my home or building, but my water utility is
not requiring me to test it. Should it still be tested?

Yes. All testable backflow prevention assemblies must be tested at least annually. This is a requirement of the Uniform Plumbing Code. If the assembly is defective, it must be repaired or replaced.

∨> 8.  What is a shutdown test and why is it required?

A shutdown test is performed when recycled (and/or an alternative water source) is provided to a property for uses such as irrigation or toilet flushing.

The purpose of the test is to make sure there are no connections (cross-connections) between the drinking water (also known as domestic water) system and the recycled (or alternative) water system. Shutdown tests must be performed prior to receiving recycled water onsite and are required by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and the water utility providing the recycled water. The test must be performed by a certified Cross-Connection Control Program Specialist.

The test is performed by turning off each water system individually and checking all plumbing fixtures and equipment for flow or no flow depending upon which system is being tested at that time.

∨> 1.  Can we schedule a specific start time?

Yes, we can schedule a specific start time to accommodate your schedule.

∨> 2.   Do I need to be present when the technician comes to test the backflow
assembly(ies)?

Whether you, or a representative, need to be present depends on if the assembly is in an area that requires special access. If the backflow prevention assembly is outside at the street with no locks, chains, cage, or any other protective enclosure, then you do not need to be onsite. However, we prefer to meet our clients when we are onsite so that we may answer any questions and address any concerns at the time of service.

∨> 3.  Will you submit the paperwork to the water utility or health department that is
requiring the testing?

Yes, we submit all the necessary paperwork on your behalf to the water utility or health department.

∨> 4.  Can I get a copy of the test report after the test is completed?

Yes, you will receive a copy of your test report along with your invoice.

∨> 5.  What happens if my backflow prevention assembly fails the test?

If your backflow prevention assembly fails the test, we can perform a same-day repair with your approval at an additional cost on most models. If repair parts are not readily available, we will submit a formal bid to repair, refurbish, or replace the failing backflow prevention assembly.

Water Industry Specialists, Inc.
California-Nevada AWWA
USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research
American Backflow Prevention Association

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