Prevent Backflow

Posted on Thursday, April 25, 2019

Customers should be aware of simple precautions to prevent water contamination from backflow.

Normally, city water flows from the public water main to your home’s water pipes and out your faucets. When water flows in the opposite direction, it’s called backflow.

Backflow occurs when an event causes abnormally low pressure in the system such as fire fighting or a water main break. This creates a contamination hazard because water flowing into the city system from a private water supply may contain lawn chemicals or household products that are not safe to drink.

Newer homes have anti-siphon faucets to prevent backflow. On older outdoor faucets, install an inexpensive hose bibb vacuum breaker to prevent backflow from your garden hose.

Private lawn irrigation systems are the most common backflow hazard. These systems are fitted with a backflow prevention assembly. A yearly inspection by a licensed tester is required to make sure it’s working properly.

CFU has contracted with Aqua Backflow to help manage this program. We appreciate your cooperation with them regarding requests for information.

For more details on backflow prevention and a list of local testing companies visit cfu.net/backflow. Questions can be directed to Aqua Backflow at 847-742-2296 or info@AquaBackflow.com. Or you can contact CFU Water Operations at 319-268-5331.