Preventing Cross-connections and Backflow
Cross-Connections are the physical connections between the water system and potential sources of contamination, such as irrigation systems, fire protection systems, hoses and any other potential or actual hazard connected directly to the main water supply.
If you leave a hose in non-potable (unfit for drinking) water, such as soapy water, pool water, etc., you could contaminate your drinking water. For instance, if the pressure in the water supply feeding your property drops while your hose is submerged in non-potable water, suction could be created which pulls the non-potable water back into your pipes, your drinking water supply and Aqua’s distribution main. The Federal Safe Water Drinking Act requires that backflow prevention devices be installed to prevent contamination of the drinking water supply.
Aqua is partnering with National Water Specialties Company (NAWSC) for our cross-connection control program. NAWSC works with water utilities to help maintain an effective program to protect customers and the water supply.
You can find more information on NAWSC, including a list of certified backflow testers, on the NAWSC website. You can also contact NAWSC at 844.605.5213 or by emailing ccc@aquaamerica.com.
Backflow is the reverse flow of water or other substances into the treated drinking water distribution system. The backflow is caused by either back-siphonage or back-pressure.
Back-siphonage is the backflow caused by negative pressure in the water system. Similar to a straw, back-siphonage pulls water from customer plumbing systems into the distribution system.
Back-pressure is a backflow event where pressure in a customer plumbing system exceeds pressures in the distribution system. This type of backflow event is typically caused by pumps, boilers, or industrial equipment.
Learn More
Read through the FAQs below to learn more about cross connections and back flow.
How Does This Affect You?
Contamination of the water system could result if a backflow event occurs. This may impact the quality of the drinking water in your household and can lead to health hazards for household members and the surrounding community if contaminant exposure occurs.
Who Is Responsible to Protect Against a Backflow Event?
The Federal Safe Drinking Water Act and State Regulations require Aqua to have backflow prevention programs in place.
Where backflow protection is required, customers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and testing their backflow prevention device. Customers are encouraged to contact a licensed plumber or certified backflow professional for installation assistance.
You can find a list of certified backflow professionals through our partner NAWSC here.
How Do I Know if I Need a Testable Backflow Prevention Device?
To protect the water supply, all connections should have backflow protection. Properties where either the activities at the site or the buildings mechanical systems represent a risk to water quality or health are required to have a testable device. To find out if you need a testable device, start by filling out Aqua’s online cross-connection survey found here. If you need assistance filling out your survey, please contact our cross-connection tracking partner, National Water Specialties Company (NAWSC) at 844.605.5213 or by email at ccc@aquaamerica.com. NAWSC experts will gladly help you complete a survey form.
Aqua is constantly working to improve the safety and reliability of your water service. Part of that effort is identifying any potential threats. You may receive notification from Aqua regarding backflow requirements. Any notification will include specific directions for any action required by customers.
If you have a backflow prevention device installed, the device must be tested annually to ensure it is functioning properly. If you have an irrigation system requiring backflow protection, Aqua recommends customers set an annual reminder to schedule testing during active irrigation months, sometime after opening and before closing the system. Avoid scheduling tests during colder months when systems are not in use.
How do I know which type of backflow protection device is required?
The device required is dependent on the level of hazard at the property (see graph below). High hazards such as metal plating, medical facilities, and chemical manufacturing, require a Reduced Pressure Zone device, while less severe hazards, such as fire systems without chemical additives require a testable dual check valve device. If you have any questions or are unsure if you have the right level of protection in place, please contact National Water Specialties Company (NAWSC) at 844.605.5213 or by email at ccc@aquaamerica.com.
| Hazard | Risk | Device Required |
| Contaminant | Poses health risk | Reduce Pressure Zone |
| Pollutant | Impacts water quality (taste, odor, appearance) | Dual Check Valve |
I received a notice stating backflow protection is required or that device test results must be submitted. What do I need to do?
To comply with backflow testing requirements, you must have your backflow prevention device tested annually by an American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE)-certified backflow tester. Your tester should submit test results directly to National Water Specialties Company. Passing test results must be submitted annually.
Aqua recommends you ask your tester for a copy of the test results for your records. These can be used in the event Aqua needs verification of your backflow protection device test.
You can find a list of certified backflow professionals through our partner NAWSC here.
How do I avoid service interruption?
To avoid service interruption for backflow non-compliance, please ensure you have your devices tested, and results submitted annually. If you have received a shut-off notice, Aqua requires a test to be submitted to avoid service interruption. (Coming soon: If you are having trouble scheduling a test before the outlined shutoff date, please click on your state below for contact information to discuss your options.)
Illinois
Indiana
Ohio
Pennsylvania
New Jersey
North Carolina
Texas
Virginia
Why is Aqua requiring a backflow now, I have never needed one before?
- Aqua is constantly working to ensure the health and safety of our customers while improving the safety and reliability of your drinking water service. Part of that effort is identifying any potential threats. There are several reasons we may be requiring the backflow:
- Aqua has identified a previously unknown condition at your property
- The use or conditions and consequently the level of hazard at your property has changed
More backflow prevention tips:
Did you know that the hose is the most common source of backflow contamination? Install backflow prevention devices on threaded faucets in your home, especially outdoor hose faucets. Inexpensive backflow preventors, like hose connection vacuum breakers, can be found at many local plumbing supply stores. Additional ideas:
- Keep ends of hoses clear of possible contaminants
- Never leave a hose in a sink, bucket, drain, swimming pool or tub
- Keep water levels in such items below faucets and inlet valves
- Never use spray device attachments, such as weed killers, on your hose without a backflow prevention device
