What is “backflow”?
The reversal of the flow of water or mixtures of
water and other liquids, gases, or other substances
into the treated water supply.
Backflow occurs
when the pressure in the distribution system drops,
siphoning water from the consumer’s system into
the distribution system. This type is called “back
siphonage.” Some water customers have non-potable materials on their premises under pressure. This type of cross connection can create “back pressure” backflow.
Both are potentially dangerous to our water consumers. To protect the purity of our drinking water, it is very important that we, the water supplier, the health department plumbing authority, and the consumer work together.
Requirements: In accordance with the requirements of the California Administrative code, Title 17, Chapter V, Sections 7583-7605, a backflow device will be required on the following:
PCWA SPECIFICATIONS
Reduced Pressure Principle Device is required for:
- Fire hydrant connections for construction water purposes.
- Residences where there is unapproved auxiliary water supply with inter-connection.
- Premises where there are irrigation systems into which fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides are, or can be, injected, spread, or sprayed.
- All services having a hydro-pneumatic system.
- All new and certain existing commercial connections.
Double Check Device is required for:
- Residences where there is unapproved auxiliary water supply with no inter-connection.
- Certain existing commercial connections.
Double Check Detector Assembly is required for:
- Fire protection systems not using chemicals.
Reduced Pressure Principle Detector Assembly is required for:
- Fire protection systems using chemicals.
Two or more services supplying water from different street mains to the same building, structure, or premises through which an inter-street main flow may occur, shall have at least a standard check valve on each water service to be located adjacent to and on the property side of the respective meters. Such check valve shall not be considered adequate if backflow protection is deemed necessary to protect the Agency’s mains from pollution or contamination; in such cases the installation of approved backflow devices at such service connections shall be required.
BACKFLOW DEVICES: Only those devices approved by the California Department of Health Services shall be acceptable for installation by a water user connected to the Agency’s potable water system.
INSTALLATION: Shall be in the manner prescribed in Section 7603, Title 17, of the California Administrative Code and as shown on standard drawing SA7 and SA8.
AGENCY RESPONSIBILITY: To identify the need and confirm the installation of a proper backflow device. The initial test/certification will be done by the Agency. The Agency will follow up on a yearly recertification.
The following is available upon request: a list of approved backflow prevention devices; specification drawings SA7 and SA8; a list of approved certified testers; excerpts from the California Administrative Code, Title 17; Agency tester form.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: The backflow device will be owned, installed, and tested yearly by the customer. First, the proper backflow device must be installed. PCWA has qualified technicians to assist you if necessary. Second, after the initial installation test by the Agency, the backflow device must be tested by a certified backflow tester annually. The certified test report must be sent to our Customer Services Department.
FROST PROTECTION: If the device is exposed to freezing temperatures, protection is required. Frozen water in the backflow device will expand and cause cracks and breaks in the backflow assembly. The break will start leaking water when the pipes start to thaw. You may be without water if you do develop a leak or a break. The backflow assembly belongs to you and, therefore, is your responsibility to repair, not PCWA.
PROTECT THE BACKFLOW ASSEMBLY FROM FREEZING: Local hardware stores have weatherproofing material to wrap the backflow assembly. Be sure to wrap the pipes from the ground up to the backflow and back down to the ground. A large bag specifically made for the backflow can be purchased to be placed over the backflow during the winter or a box can be built and placed over the backflow device. On firelines, covering must allow access to bypass meters for reading.
TURN OFF THE WATER TO THE BACKFLOW ASSEMBLY if you do have a leak or break. There are two ¼-turn valves on each end of the backflow assembly. Normally, the valve closest to the meter will shut off the incoming water and other valve will stop water from siphoning back from the house or business.
NON-COMPLIANCE: This program is mandated by the State of California. PCWA is required to enforce the Backflow Prevention Program. Failure to comply with the backflow requirements can result in a discontinuation of water service.
REMINDERS:
- Backflow devices will reduce water pressure from 7 to 10 pounds.
- Backflow devices need to be protected from freezing temperatures.
- Provide access to bypass meters for reading on fireline services.
- It is your responsibility to maintain and repair a leaky or broken backflow device.
Backflow Prevention Program
For a copy of state certified backflow tester lists you may go to:
Western Placer County - County of Sacramento, Environmental Management Department
Eastern Placer County - Truckee Donner Public Utility District
Questions? Contact our Customer Services Department at 530.823.4850, 800.464.0030 or email
customerservices@pcwa.net.
