What is a Backflow Device?
A backflow device or cross connection control device, is a device designed to prevent contaminates (non harmful) and pollutants (harmful) from entering our public water systems in case there is a backflow or back pressure situation.
Types of Backflow Devices
- DC: This is a double check valve that can be used to prevent moderate risk contaminates (only things that may change how the water tastes, smells, or looks but will not cause any adverse health affects).
- RP: This is a reduced pressure valve it offers moderate to high level protection and should be used an any situation where there is potential for a consumer’s water to cause harm or death from chemical, bacterial, or viral pollutants.
- Air Gap: Is an actual physical separation between the water source and its receptacle and provides the highest level of protection and are seen most commonly in plumbing fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and tubs.
- AVB: Atmospheric vacuum breaker. These are non testable and can only be used for protection from lawn sprinklers and irrigation systems.
Do you have any of these situations?
- An alternate water source, such as river/creek irrigation or well system
- A pond, storage tank, or any other standing water
- A permanent buried sprinkler system.
- A farm that applies fertilizers or pesticides
- A business with a kitchen or laundry
- Other situation where contaminated or polluted water could be in
contact with water lines that are fed with District water.
WCCSD District Policy:
If you have any of the situations listed above, you are required by State regulations and District policy to have a backflow device on your water system, immediately after your meter. Backflows must be tested annually to confirm they are working properly. The property owner is required to pay for the installation of the backflow device, the annual testing, and any repairs that are needed.
The Willow Creek Community Services District is currently providing annual testing of all backflow assemblies on the District system. A monthly charge is added to a customers bill to compensate the District for the annual test. If a backflow assembly does not pass the annual test, the cost of labor and materials to repair the backflow assembly will be charged to the customers water account.
WCCSD Cross-connection Control Plan – Ordinance 25-1