Why a Backflow Prevention?
Water systems are designed for one direction of water flow. Backflow happens when the normal direction of flow reverses, usually due to a change in water pressure. When backflow occurs, contaminates from outside of our public and private water systems can be unintentionally pulled into the water system through unprotected cross connections. Cross connections are physical connections between the drinking water system and an outside source – anything other than freshly treated, SWBNO-supplied water.
To protect the public drinking water supply from backflow contamination and per Louisiana Department of Health requirements, SWBNO developed a backflow prevention program to find and reduce the number of unprotected cross connections. The utility is also assisting property owners with their responsibilities toward meeting the state’s requirements.
Approved Testers
If a cross connection control survey on your property requires action, an approved plumber or tester must perform your annual certification test.
- Enter the Hazard ID at the top of your annual test or air gap letter
| Letter Type | Purpose | Action Required | If Non-Compliant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Gap Letter | Notifies the customer that an actual or potential hazard has been identified, such as a swimming pool or lawn irrigation system on a residential property. | Customer must respond that they will fill their vessel using an air gap. | Non-compliance will likely require that a backflow preventer be installed. |
| Test Due Letter | Notifies client that an annual test needs to be performed. | Customer must have a certified individual perform a test within a certain timeline to comply with state regulations and codes. | Non-compliance with this request could ultimately lead to discontinuation of water services in accordance with state regulations. |
| Due Install Letter | Requires that a backflow preventer be installed and tested in accordance with state regulations and codes by a certain date. The hazard associated with the installation is typically identified during the cross-connection control survey. | Customer must have a backflow preventer installed and tested by a State of Louisiana licensed plumber who holds a WSPS endorsement on their plumbing license. | Non-compliance with this request could ultimately lead to discontinuation of water services in accordance with state regulations. |
| Incorrect Installation Letter | Notifies the customer that an existing backflow preventer is the incorrect type for the appropriate degree of hazard identified during the survey. | The customer must change the backflow preventer to the correct assembly in accordance with code. This work must be performed by a State of Louisiana licensed plumber who holds a WSPS endorsement on their plumbing license. | Non-compliance with this request could ultimately lead to discontinuation of water services in accordance with state regulations. |
Customer responsibilities include the installation of a backflow preventer (if required) and annual testing thereafter. Costs associated with both will be borne by the customer under Louisiana Administrative Code (LAC) 51: XII . Once a backflow preventer is installed or replaced, SWBNO will inspect the work to ensure it meets all applicable regulations and codes.
This is an ongoing process to protect public health from accidental contamination of the drinking water system. We all play a part in keeping New Orleans's water system safe and healthy.
How Customers Can Prevent Backflow
Knowing how to prevent backflow is the first step in protecting yourself and your neighbors. Here are a few methods for preventing cross connections and backflow in your home.
Air Gap
The most common form of cross connections on residential properties is a submerged garden hose in non-potable water. You can avoid this cross connection by filling the vessel (tub, swimming pool, ornamental fountain, etc.) through an air gap. An air gap is the physical distance between the discharge of a garden hose and the receiving vessel.
Backflow Preventers
Not all cross connections can be eliminated. Things that provide everyday benefits – like car washes, fountain drink machines, and lawn irrigation – can cause backflow without proper protection. Backflow preventers are mechanical devices installed within a customer’s plumbing system to prevent the reversal of flow. The type of backflow preventer required depends on the hazards and conditions encountered. Laws and regulations require at least annual testing of backflow preventers. Testing should be conducted by an individual certified to perform the work.
- Enter the Hazard ID at the top of your annual test or air gap letter
The more common backflow preventers are shown here.
