Understanding Cross-Connections and Backflow

What is a cross-connection?

A cross-connection is any actual or potential connection between the public water system and a source containing an unapproved substance or contaminant.

What is backflow?

Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow into the potable supply. It may occur through backpressure or back-siphonage.

What is a backflow prevention assembly?

A backflow prevention assembly is a plumbing device that protects the public drinking water system from contamination. It is installed in a water line to prevent water from flowing in the wrong direction into the public water supply.

Ownership and Requirements

Who owns the backflow prevention assembly?

The backflow prevention assembly is owned by the property owner. It is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain the backflow prevention assembly in accordance with Fair Oaks Water District (FOWD) policy 6030.

Why are backflow prevention assemblies required?

Backflow prevention assemblies are required to protect the drinking water supply from contamination. They prevent water from flowing in the reverse direction from a property owner’s private plumbing system or other potential contamination sources back into the public water system.

Why is a backflow prevention assembly required on my residence with a fire sprinkler system?

A backflow prevention assembly is required on residences with a fire sprinkler system because the water in the sprinkler piping can remain stagnant for extended periods and may contain contaminants that are not suitable for drinking. If a backflow event occurs due to a loss of pressure or other hydraulic conditions in the public water system, this stagnant or potentially contaminated water could be drawn back into the potable water supply.

Testing Requirements

Why do backflow prevention assemblies need to be tested annually?

Per State regulations and FOWD Policy 6030 a backflow prevention assembly is required to be tested annually and immediately after installation, relocation or repair. Backflow prevention assemblies are mechanical devices that can wear out, fail, or become damaged over time. Annual testing verifies that the assembly will operate properly.

Who is responsible for testing the backflow prevention assembly?

The property owner is responsible for arranging and completing all required testing of the backflow prevention assembly by a Sacramento County–approved backflow tester.

Who can test my backflow prevention assembly?

Testing must be completed by a Sacramento County approved backflow tester with a current American Water Works Association (AWWA) Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certification and calibrated testing equipment. A list of Sacramento County–approved testers is available at: https://emd.saccounty.gov/EH/Pages/EMDForms-Water.aspx

Does FOWD staff test backflow prevention assemblies for its customers?

FOWD staff tests newly installed backflow prevention assemblies to confirm they meet FOWD standards and can be properly entered into the database. Any additional required testing must be performed by a Sacramento County certified tester.

Installation Requirements

How do I know if I need a backflow prevention assembly?

FOWD staff determine installation requirements through inspections and surveys. If your property requires a backflow prevention assembly, you will receive a Notification to Install Backflow Prevention Assembly letter. Installation standards are available on the FOWD website: https://www.fowd.com/standard-specifications-manual.

Who can install a backflow prevention assembly?

Installations may be completed by a property owner, plumbing contractor, or general contractor in accordance with FOWD Construction Standards and Specifications.

Additional Information

Where can I find additional information?

FOWD staff follow FOWD Policy No. 6030 and the California CrossConnection Control Policy Handbook. Additional information is available on the FOWD website: https://www.fowd.com/fowd-cross-connection

Why is FOWD staff requesting to survey my property for a possible cross-connection?

Per the State Water Resources Control Board Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook, each community water system must conduct a hazard assessment of all user premises within its service area. FOWD staff is working towards meeting this requirement.