Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention1. If I am a non-residential customer in New Jersey American Water’s service territory, what am I required to do? All New Jersey American Water non-residential customers with an unapproved water supply are required to take steps to prevent cross connections and backflow to the water system. If you are uncertain if a Backflow device is required, complete and return to NJAW a survey form. All non-residential water customers that are required to have an approved backflow device must have the device(s) installed, permitted by the NJ DEP, and tested on a quarterly basis as per the permit requirements. Non-residential customers must renew the NJ DEP Backflow device permit annually, and will be required to certify in writing to New Jersey American Water that these devices have been maintained and are in working order. This will include a test performed by a qualified inspector. A Backflow Prevention Device Test Form should be completed by the tester and mailed or faxed to New Jersey American Water. 2. Who gives the authority to implement the program?
3. What is a backflow prevention device? Backflow prevention devices are mechanical plumbing devices installed in a plumbing system to prevent water from flowing backward in the system. A properly installed, tested and maintained backflow preventer at the service entrance to a building or property can reliably prevent the backflow of water of an unknown quality from flowing back into the community water system. Backflow prevention is important to protect the New Jersey American Water customers against accidental contamination of the drinking water supply due to a direct connection of a non-drinkable substance to the normal drinking water piping. 4. What kind of backflow device do I need? The type of backflow device necessary depends on what the degree of hazard is present at your location. The degree of hazard depends on the use of water at your location and what could potentially enter the system. Please contact New Jersey American Water at 1-732 302-3141 to determine the type of device needed at your facility. ** Remember that the device will need to be permitted by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. For more information, view the NJ DEP Application Form for Initial Physical Connection Permit. 5. Who should install and test a backflow device? While not required, 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 NJ DEP's List of Certified Testers of Backflow Prevention Devices. Additional resources are as follows:
Please note: New Jersey American Water does not endorse any specific backflow testers, and we are not responsible for the accuracy of the information provided on these websites. These links are provided as a resource only. There may be other qualified testers not listed on these sites. 6. Where should the backflow device be installed? The backflow device must be installed on the customer’s service line immediately after the meter and before any branching of the line to accommodate any additional taps, faucets or hose connections. 7. 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. 8. 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 are the customers’ responsibility as outlined in the company’s tariff approved by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. 9. Are all non-residential customers required to comply? Yes. All non-residential customers are required to comply, if it is determined that a Backflow device is required. There are no exceptions. 10. Are residential customers required to have cross-control/backflow prevention measures in place? It depends. Residential customers are not required to have devices permitted, by the NJDEP. However if you have an additional source of supply, such as an irrigation well you may be required to install a backflow prevention device. Please contact your public water system or plumbing code official for further information. If you are unsure, please call our Environmental Manager at 1-732-302-3141. 11. What happens if I do not comply? The company has the right to shut off your water service until you are in compliance. 12. Once I have my device tested, where do I mail my completed test form each year? Completed test form should be mailed to: New Jersey American Water
|
© 2012 American Water. "New Jersey American Water" and the star logo are the registered trademarks of American Water Works Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
