Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention Commonly Asked Questions and Answers1. If I am a non-residential customer in Pennsylvania American Water’s service territory, what am I required to do? All non-residential water customers are required to have an approved backflow device installed and tested on an annual basis. Non-residential customers must certify in writing to Pennsylvania American Water that these devices have been maintained and are in working order. This should 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 Pennsylvania American Water. 2. Who gives the authority to implement the program? Title 25. Environmental Protection, Department of Environmental Protection, Chapter 109. Safe Drinking Water, Subchapter G, System Management Responsibilities, Section 109.709. Also, the tariff of Pennsylvania American Water as approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania American Water at 1-570-830-6549 to determine the type of device needed at your facility. 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 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. 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 PA Public Utility Commission. 9. Are all non-residential customers required to comply? Yes. All non-residential customers are required to comply. There are no exceptions. 10. Are residential customers required to have cross-control/backflow prevention measures in place? Depends. All new construction/new residential service connections are required to have appropriate backflow protection in place before service is provided. This includes fire sprinklers and lawn sprinklers. If you are unsure, please call our Cross Connection Department at 1-570-830-6549. 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 forms should be mailed to: Pennsylvania American Water
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