Cross Connection and Backflow

All non-residential customers are required to take steps to prevent cross connections and backflow to the water system. This includes the installation of an approved backflow prevention device and having it tested annually. In some cases, residential customers are also required to install backflow prevention devices (i.e., new service connections, permanently installed fire sprinklers and permanently installed lawn sprinklers).

Failure to comply can result in water service disconnection. Pennsylvania American Water can help to determine if you are in compliance with the regulations, and we are available to answer any questions that you may have related to backflow prevention.

What is a cross connection and backflow? 

Cross Connection is any actual or physical connection between a potable (drinkable) water supply and any source of non-potable liquid, solid or gas that could contaminate drinking water under certain circumstances.

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. 

1. 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. 
2. 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 distribution system can happen because of a water main break or when a hydrant is used for fire fighting. 

Why backflow prevention is important 

Drinking water that meets regulations leaving the water treatment facility can become contaminated in the distribution (pipeline) system by backflow when:

• 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.

How to prevent backflow contamination 

Backflow contamination can be prevented. All non-residential water utility customers are required to have approved and functioning backflow-prevention devices installed. In some cases, residential customers are also required to install backflow prevention devices (i.e., new service connections, permanently installed fire sprinklers and permanently installed lawn sprinklers). 

Installation of backflow prevention devices can be completed by an independent plumbing contractor. The cost of the device and installation is the responsibility of the customer. We recommend that customers obtain cost estimates before installation. 

In addition to installing these devices, regulation mandates that non-residential water customers and residential customers where it applies (i.e., new service connections, permanently installed fire sprinklers and permanently installed lawn sprinklers) have these devices tested on an annual basis by a qualified tester. For a list of qualified testers, please see the links below.

Resources

We will work with you to answer any questions you may have regarding backflow prevention and the corrective actions necessary to ensure compliance. Below are additional resources that may be helpful.

• Commonly Asked Q and A
• Survey for non-residential customers: Complete our survey and fax it back to us. We will help determine whether you are in compliance with cross-connection/backflow prevention regulations.
• Pennsylvania American Water Backflow Device Test Form
• Qualified Backflow Device Installer/Testers: A list of qualified installers / testers can be found by visiting the American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) or PA Rural Water Association. Please note: Pennsylvania 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.

If you have any questions, please call our Cross Connection Hotline at 1-570-830-6549.