Why should you backflow test?

The basics

What Is Backflow?

Backflow is the reversal of the flow of water in the plumbing system. It can occur when the pressure in the water main or a home’s plumbing system changes.

What is a backflow prevention assembly, and do I need one?

A backflow prevention assembly is a device that provides a mechanical barrier to backflow. If you have a sprinkler system installed at your home, you are required by the Uniform Plumbing Code to have an approved backflow assembly installed and annually inspected. It’s a good idea to test your backflow assembly every spring when you turn your irrigation system on.

What if I have a pressurized irrigation system?

If there is no physical connection between the pressurized irrigation system and the public water supply, there is no need to have a backflow assembly. If there is any connection between the two water supply systems, you must have a backflow assembly installed and tested annually.

How am I at risk if there is a backflow incident?

If there is backflow at your home, you could contaminate your drinking water with non-treated water from an irrigation canal or water pooled around a sprinkler head that has fertilizer on it. Also, if you use your hose to fill a wading pool or hot tub, a reversal of the water flow could siphon pool or spa chemicals back through the garden hose and into your house’s plumbing.

Garden hoses that are used to apply chemical fertilizers or pesticides are also susceptible to drawing contaminants into your home. If your home was built after 1985, it should be equipped with backflow-preventing hose bibs. If your home is older, you need to check to make sure you have the proper protection for outside faucets.

If there is a backflow incident at just one home in a neighborhood, there is the potential for contaminants to spread into the public water supply, threatening your neighbors. A properly operating backflow assembly can help prevent this.

State Drinking Water Regulations

Idaho State Drinking Water regulations (IDAPA 58.01.08.552.6) require that all backflow assemblies are inspected annually. Properties with assemblies that have not been tested, have not been isolated or repaired or replaced, shall have water service to the failed assembly discontinued. Failure to comply with the testing requirements by this due date could result in termination of water services to your home until such time as the test results are received.

What can you do?

As a property owner, you are responsible for protecting the water on your property. This responsibility starts at the water meter and includes your entire property’s water system. If you have any actual or potential cross connection to the potable water system, you are required to have a backflow prevention device installed and tested annually. All costs associated with the installation, operation, maintenance and annual testing of your backflow prevention device is your responsibility. Termination of water services is an option of last resort for untested devices. However properties not in compliance with State of Idaho regulations for successful annual testing shall have water service to their home discontinued until backflow prevention devices are brought into compliance.

Backflow testing must be completed by a State of Idaho certified backflow tester. It is the responsibility of the property owner to confirm their tester is currently certified by the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) and that testing reports are submitted to the water purveyor in a timely manner. That's where we come in!

Articles & Other Information

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Caldwell residents asked to be cautious of drinking water

Boise Residents Sickened By Bad Water Not Satisfied With Company's Response

Residents in Eagle subdivision get sick from drinking irrigation water

BackflowCases.com

The Cost of a Backflow Incident