Helpful Resources
Backflow and Cross Connection
Cross Connection Control: Backflow Prevention, Installation, and Testing
If your home or business has any of the following...
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Fire Sprinkler system
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Lawn irrigation system
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Swimming pool
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Hot tub / jacuzzi tub
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Livestock watering system
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Decorative fountain
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Hydraulic boat lift
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Water makeup lines (to supply a boiler or hydronic heating)
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OR if you are a business of (most) any kind
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OR if you raise farm animals...
...Washington State Department of Health requires you to:
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Have a “Backflow Prevention Assembly" installed on your water service;
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Get it tested annually by a certified backflow assembly tester; and
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Have your tester send a copy of the test record to Coal Creek Utility District.
What is a Cross Connection?
A cross connection is a point in a plumbing system where the potable water supply is connected to a non-potable source. If a "backflow" occurs, pollutants or contaminants can enter the drinking water system through uncontrolled cross connections. There are two types of backflow risks:
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Back-siphonage: this is caused by a negative pressure in the supply line to a facility or plumbing fixture. Backsiphonage may occur during waterline breaks, when repairs are made to the waterlines, or when shutting off the water supply.
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Back-pressure: this can occur when the potable water supply is connected to another system operating at a higher pressure, or a system that has the ability to create pressure, such as a booster pump, pressure vessel, or elevated plumbing.
How Do We Prevent Cross Connection?
Water safety is a two-way street. If you have any of the items listed, a mechanical backflow prevention device can prevent backflow from cross connections. However they must be properly installed and regularly inspected to protect effectively.
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Should you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at (425) 235-9200.