What is Backflow?

Backflow refers to an unwanted reversal of water flow in a plumbing system.  This reversal is unwanted because contamination can enter the potable water delivery system.  The term “potable” indicates water that is fit for human consumption.  But if potable water has come in contact with contamination, it becomes a health hazard, potentially endangering the entire community that relies on the water delivery system.

What is a Backflow Preventer?

A backflow preventer, or backflow device (sometimes just “backflow” for short) is a plumbing fixture specifically designed to prevent the occurrence of a backflow condition.  There are many different uses of water that pose different levels of threat to the supply system.  Backflow prevention assemblies are designed in several configurations to protect against different levels of threat.  The higher the hazard, the higher level of protection required. Backflow preventers are required to be installed wherever a connection is made between a potable water supply and a potential source of pollution or contamination.  This is called a cross-connection.  Water suppliers and health departments have responsibility to ensure all cross-connections are properly protected and that the protection is maintained.

What is Backflow Testing?

Backflow testing (also known as “backflow prevention assembly testing”) is the process of determining whether a backflow preventer will operate properly to stop the reverse flow of fluids during a backflow condition.