The term 'backflow' means any unwanted flow of used or non-potable water or substance from any domestic, industrial or institutional piping system into the pure, potable water distribution system. The direction of flow under these conditions is in the reverse direction from that intended by the system. Backflow may be caused by a loss of pressure in the supply main called backsiphonage, or by the flow from a customer's pressurized system through an unprotected cross-connection, which is called backpressure. Thus the term backflow covers both a backsiphonage condition and a backpressure condition.

A reversal of water flow can be created when the pressure at the supply point becomes lower than the pressure at the point of use. When this happens in an unprotected situation the water at the point of use will be siphoned back into the system; thus, potentially contaminating the remainder of the customer's system. It is also possible that the contaminated water could continue to backflow into the public distribution system. The point at which a non-potable substance comes in contact with the potable drinking water system is called a cross-connection.

To prevent backflow from occurring, a backflow prevention assembly must be installed. Many homes that have irrigation systems are required by the local water company to have their backflow prevention device tested annually by a certified inspector. At Mattex Service Company, our certified inspector will come to your home or business to ensure maintanence of your backflow prevention equipment and optimum water quality! Call us today with any questions or to schedule your test.