What is "backflow"?

Backflow is the undesirable reverse flow of dirty water or other fluids into a fresh water supply system, which can lead to contamination of the water supply with potentially harmful substances, such as chemicals, bacteria, and other pathogens.

A backflow prevention valve is a plumbing device that is designed to prevent the reverse flow of water from a building's plumbing system back into the public water supply. It is typically installed on the water line that connects the building's plumbing system to the public water supply.

Backflow valves are important because they help prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the public drinking water supply, which has historically been the cause of major urban disease outbreaks.

If you don't test and certify your backflow valve, you may be putting yourself and others at risk of contamination from backflow. Failure to test and certify your backflow valve may result in fines, legal action, or even the revocation of your water service.

What's a backflow prevention valve?

Why is a backflow valve important?

What's happens if I don't test and certify?