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Cross Connection Information
Backflow testers can click the link below to access their account.
Backflow Test Portal
What is a cross connection?
Any piping arrangement which allows a potable (drinking) water system to be connected to a non-potable system.
What does backflow mean?
The undesirable reversal of the flow of water or other substances into the potable water distribution supply. It can be caused by back-pressure, back-siphonage or combination of both.
The most common source of residential cross connection is a garden hose. For example, the end of the hose might be submerged in a non-potable (undrinkable) source or it might be connected to a fertilizer sprayer. If the water pressure drops, contaminated water could get sucked back into your water pipes, which could pose a health risk to you and your family.
How to prevent water backflow?
How do you protect yourself from backflow situations?
- Keep all hoses and faucets away from direct contact with possible contaminants.
- Never submerge hoses in buckets, pools, tubs, or sinks.
- In the event of loss of water pressure, you need an air gap. Otherwise the hose will act like a straw and suck the liquid backwards.
- Protect yourself by installing inexpensive backflow protection devices on all hoses and threaded faucets in your home. These devices are available at hardware and home improvement stores for about $4-10 each. Backflow vacuum breakers provide safety valves that prevent liquids from flowing backwards into a hose or faucet.
Specialized backflow prevention devices are available for more elaborate installations, such as:
- built-in lawn irrigation sprinklers
- hot water boilers
- in-ground swimming pools
- heat exchangers
- active solar heating systems,
- private wells
Devices are also available for specialized commercial locations such as:
- dry cleaners
- car washes
- laboratories and manufacturers
Backflow devices ensure that potentially contaminated water cannot be drawn back into the public water supply from a business or residence in the event of a negative water main pressure situation. If you receive a letter from the Water Utility informing you that a device is due for certification and inspection, please respond as quickly as possible to protect water quality and safety. Proper maintenance of backflow prevention devices requires a periodic inspection, certification, and annual reporting of those results to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
Resources
EPA CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL MANUAL
EPA CROSS CONNECTION - BEST PRACTICES GUIDE
BACKFLOW PREVENTION & CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL: APPLICATIONS & INSTALLATIONS (YouTube video)
CITY OF ADRIAN CROSS CONNECTION CONTROL PROGRAM