Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention Frequently Asked Questions

1.   Why is backflow prevention important?
Drinking water that meets water quality standards leaving the water treatment facility can become contaminated in the distribution (Pipeline) system by backflow when the following conditions exist:

• A drinking water distribution main is unprotected because of the lack of a properly installed and functioning backflow prevention device on the service connection at the customer’s supply
• A physical cross connection is made between the drinking water distribution main and a contaminant source
• Backflow conditions occur
  

2.   What is backflow?
Backflow is the reverse flow of water or other substances through a cross connection into the treated drinking water distribution system. There are two types of backflow: backpressure and backsiphonage.

Backpressure happens when the pressure of the contaminant source exceeds the positive pressure in the water distribution main. An example would be when a drinking water supply main has a connection to a hot water boiler system that is not protected by an approved and functioning backflow preventer. If pressure in the boiler system increases to where it exceeds the pressure in the water distribution system, backflow from the boiler to the drinking water supply system may occur.

Backsiphonage is caused by a negative pressure (vacuum or partial vacuum) in the water distribution system. This situation is similar in effect to the sipping of water through a straw. Negative pressure in the drinking water system can happen because of a water main break or when a hydrant is used for fire fighting.

3.  If I am a customer in Indiana American Water’s service territory, what am I required to do?
State regulations require residential, commercial, and industrial customers served by a public water system to protect the public water system from potential contamination. Please reference the list of state-designated cross connection hazards requiring backflow prevention devices. If your home or business is on this list, you are required to install, maintain, and test the appropriate State-approved backflow prevention assembly. The backflow test report should be completed by an Indiana-registered backflow tester and sent via email at inaw.ccc@amwater.com, fax or mail to Indiana American Water.

4.  Who gives the authority to implement the program?
The State of Indiana Cross Connection Regulations are included in the Indiana Administrative Code. The following regulations govern cross connections:
327 IAC 8-10 CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL

5.  What is an approved backflow prevention assembly?
All backflow prevention assemblies must be both State approved and provide the appropriate protection for the degree of hazard present.. A State approved backflow prevention assembly is defined as one that has been accepted and listed as approved by the University of Southern California Foundation for Cross Connection Research.

6.  What type of backflow assembly do I need?
The type of backflow device necessary depends on the degree of hazard present at your location, taking into account how water is used at your location and any conditions that might allow contaminants to enter system. A list of designated cross connection hazards is available online. Please contact Indiana American Water at 1-866-612-2843 to determine the type of assembly needed at your facility.

7.  Who should install and test a backflow assembly?
We recommend that you have someone who is qualified to install or test backflow devices. A list of qualified installers / testers can be found by visiting the State of Indiana IPLA web site at http://extranet.in.gov/webLookup/search.aspx and searching by license type.  Please note: Indiana American Water does not endorse any specific backflow testers, and we are not responsible for the accuracy of the information provided on these web sites. These links are provided as a resource only.

8.  Where is the backflow assembly required to be installed?
The backflow assembly must be installed on the customer’s service line after the meter set and before any branching of the line to accommodate any additional taps, faucets or hose connections. (Installation requirements as described by 327 IAC 8-10 must be followed.)

9.  Will my water service be interrupted during the test?
Yes, the water supply to the backflow preventer must be turned off during the testing procedure. The type and location of the device will determine how long the test will take. Typically 10-30 minutes, are needed to complete testing. Additional time may be needed to make repairs.

10.  How much does a backflow device cost?
The cost of a backflow device varies based on the size, type and location. We recommend that you obtain several quotes before purchasing a backflow device.

11. Who is responsible for paying for the device and testing?
It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure that any contaminants or pollutants do not enter the water distribution system from their location. All costs related to the installation, maintenance and testing of backflow prevention assemblies are the customer’s responsibility as outlined in the Indiana Administrative Code (327 IAC 8-10).

12. Are residential customers required to have cross-control/backflow prevention measures in place?
All customers that have a land irrigation system, including those installed at a residential location, that is connected to a public water supply must install either a Reduced Pressure Principle device (RP) or a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB).

13. What happens if I do not comply?
Non-compliance with Indiana Administrative Code (327 IAC 8-10) will jeopardize your ability to be serviced by a public water system.

14. Once I have my device tested, where do I mail my completed test form each year?
Completed test forms should be submitted to Indiana American Water using the information below:
Email: inaw.ccc@amwater.com
Fax: 866-613-5879
Indiana American Water
Cross Connection Control Dept.
555 E. County Line Road
Greenwood, IN 46143

13. Questions related to our cross connection program?

Please contact the Cross Connection Department of Indiana American Water at 866-612-2843.