Backflow Testing & Repairs

 Mr. Plumber specializes in commercial and residential backflow testing, installation and repair. Group neighborhood testing can be easily arranged. 

Why is this important? 

Backflow prevention devices are required on all underground lawn irrigation systems because they stop lawn fertilizer, bacteria and other potential contaminants from entering the drinking water system through backflow.

 The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, or EGLE, requires water utilities to have comprehensive cross connection control programs for the elimination and prevention of all cross connections. This is defined in Part 14 of the Michigan Safe Drinking Water Act. Additionally, EGLE has published a Cross Connection Rules Manual which more fully explains cross connection programs.  Customers are required to maintain their water systems in a manner free of cross connections. If a backflow incident should occur resulting in contamination of the public water supply, the responsible owner or occupant could be held liable for damages.

What else is being done to prevent cross connections?

Routine inspections of buildings are conducted by inspectors to identify cross connections. The following are some examples of when cross connections can exist:

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Hose connections
Lawn irrigation systems
Toilet fill valves
Chemical aspirators
Boilers
Cooling towers
Swimming pools
Water-operated sump pumps
Water softeners
Fire sprinkler systems​

Cross connections can be eliminated by maintaining approved air gaps or by installing specific backflow prevention devices.  For example, a cross connection at a hose connection can be eliminated by installing a hose connection vacuum breaker that conforms to ASSE 1011 standards on the hose bib before the house is connected.  A cross connection in a toilet tank can be eliminated by installing an anti-siphon fill valve that conforms to ASSE 1002 standards.