What is backflow?

Backflow is water flowing opposite to its intended direction, either from a loss of pressure in the supply lines or an increase in pressure on the customer’s side (in either of these situations, if any affected customer’s pipes include a cross connection, contaminates could be drawn through the cross connection into that customer’s pipes and potentially into the water mains.) 

Cross Connection is a physical connection between drinkable water and a liquid or gas that could make the water unsafe to drink. Wherever there is a cross connection, there is a potential threat to public health from the liquid or gas contaminants). 

In accordance with TCEQ Rules and Regulations for Public Water Systems, and City Ordinance Sec. 26-121.-2006 International Plumbing Code and City Ordinance Sec. 26-32. 2006 International Residential Code, states no water connection from any public drinking water system shall be allowed at any residence or establishment where an actual or potential contamination hazard exists unless the public water system is protected by an air gap or blackflow prevention assembly. All backflow prevention assemblies are required to tested upon installation by a certified tester. Please click Backflow Prevention Assembly Test & Maintenance Report for the online form. Reports are submitted to the City upon installation or relocation of a device and at least annually if the device is protection from a High Health Hazard/Risk.