What is a Backflow device?

Backflow systems are designed to prevent the unwanted reversal of water flow in plumbing systems, which can lead to contamination of the potable water supply. The primary purpose of a backflow prevention system is to safeguard drinking water by ensuring that water flows only in one direction—away from the consumer. 

Federal, state and local codes require public water systems to:

  • Conduct customer service inspections on private plumbing systems
  • Require backflow protection using appropriate backflow assemblies
  • Require those assemblies be tested to ensure they are working correctly
Backflow Device

WHAT IS A Cross connection?

A cross connection is a connection between a potable drinking water supply and a possible source of contamination or pollution. Under the provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1971, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established national standards for safe drinking water. Each state is required to enforce the various regulations of the Safe Drinking Water Act and how it relates to its state laws.

To meet these provisions, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) on January 1, 1996, enacted a state law which requires the public water suppliers to implement and enforce the Cross Connection Control Program requirements located in the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Title 30, Chapter 290 of the Rules and Regulations for Public Water Suppliers.