Backflow: Prevention and Testing

What is Backflow?
Backflow testing ensures that water flows in the correct direction and does not contaminate the potable water supply. Backflow can occur due to changes in water pressure, such as during firefighting efforts, potentially introducing dangerous chemicals or pollutants into the water supply. Thus, backflow testing is crucial for protecting our water. 

Two conditions can cause backflow:
- Back Pressure: When the pressure in a pipe or hose is greater than the incoming pressure.
- Back Siphonage: When negative pressure in a pipe or hose draws contaminants into the drinking water supply.


What is Cross Connection?
A cross connection is a connection or piping arrangement between a drinking water system and another source that could introduce contaminants. Common cross-connections include irrigation systems, fire suppression systems, commercial kitchen activities, and garden hoses. If your property has outside water sources connected to your potable water, you are required by the State of Idaho to have the proper backflow assembly in use and to test it annually.


Why should I be concerned about Cross Connection?
Cross-connection can allow backflow of an undesirable substance or contaminant to the drinking water. This can occur when water pressure is lower than normal.
 

Whose responsibility is it?
If you own property or a business in McCall, backflow testing is mandatory, especially for homeowners with irrigation systems. You are responsible for protecting the water on your property, starting at the water meter and including your entire property's water system. Any actual or potential cross connection to the City’s potable water system requires a backflow prevention device, which must be installed and tested annually at your expense.


Testing
Backflow testing must be conducted by a certified tester, who will install or check a backflow preventer and ensure it functions properly.
To verify your tester's certification, visit the Idaho Department of Occupational and Professional Licenses.


State Requirements
Idaho State Drinking Water regulations (IDAPA 58.01.08.552.6) require annual inspection of all backflow assemblies.

For more information, visit the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and watch a backflow testing video.

Results and Questions
Send test result to FBrown@McCall.id.us
For additional questions please contact City of McCall's Water Department at: 208-634-5580 or visit the website here.