What is Backflow?
Irrigation systems save time and make watering lawns and gardens easier. However, water that may be contaminated by weed killers and/or fertilizers can be back-siphoned (backflow) into your drinking water. Because of these risks, the Uniform Plumbing Code, State Regulations, etc. require approved backflow protection. Irrigation systems not protected by approved backflow prevention assemblies could endanger the health of a household, neighborhood or community.
A main break can cause a drop in system pressure and back-siphon water into the public water system. High water demand such as firefighting situations can cause system pressure to drop and water to be back-siphoned into the public water.
If there is a direct cross-connection between the public water system and a contaminated source and adequate backflow protection is not in place, in any of the above situations, serious health issues could result.
About Our Backflow/Cross Connection Program
Our backflow/cross-connection program is a plan of action for us to eliminate the potential of dangerous backflow occurrences. We accomplish this by performing plan reviews on proposed building projects, sight inspections on all newly installed backflow assemblies, requiring annual testing of all assemblies and by educating you, the one who would be affected most, about the dangers of cross-connections and backflows.
All irrigation (sprinkler) systems, swimming pools, Jacuzzi’s and commercial businesses, new or existing, must be equipped with an approved backflow prevention assembly. Only properly installed, State approved backflow prevention assemblies comply with the plumbing code and provide health protection for your family and neighbors. Backflow devices are mechanical assemblies that help stop cross contamination of the clean water system. All backflow installation practices, devices and testing procedures will be in accordance with the District’s backflow prevention policy and State Drinking Water Regulations.
As defined in Washington Administrative Code 246-290-490, a backflow is “the flow of water or other liquids, gases or solids from any source back into the customer’s plumbing system or the water purveyor’s (East Spokane Water District #1) water distribution system.”
We rely on approved backflow prevention assemblies to protect the public water system. Approved assemblies are manufactured with isolation valves and test cocks to permit field-testing to demonstrate that the assemblies are properly functioning to prevent backflow.