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About Backflow Prevention & Annual Testing
Backflow Prevention and why it is important:
Backflow occurs when the water in your pipes goes in the opposite direction of normal flow.
The two(2) things that can cause backflow are:
1. Backpressure – when the pressure in your pipes exceeds the pressure in the water distribution system. This could be from pumps, temperature increase from boilers etc. A change in the water supply pressure can occur from water line flushing, water main breaks, and firefighting.
2. Back siphonage – when there is a sudden reduction of pressure in the water distribution system that causes fluids (water, chemical, etc.) from your pipes to be pulled into the water distribution system.
How to prevent backflow?
A backflow device can be many different types of mechanical protection to keep pollutants and dangerous chemicals from entering the city water system.
A backflow assembly prevents contaminated water from getting into the city’s water system and back to your home or business. Backflow preventers use a system of valves that open in the proper direction of flow and close whenever the flow tries to reverse. Potential backflow hazards are eliminated by installing a backflow prevention assembly in accordance with 10 CSR 60-11.010.
The City of Ozark requires residents and businesses to get their backflow devices tested annually.
If you can add somewhere for any questions, contact Tim Auchtung at 417-581-2408.
Please submit backflow reports to backflowreports@ozarkmissouri.org
- When do I need to submit my backflow inspection?
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The irrigation backflow assembly for residences is due by May 30th
- Why do we require backflow prevention program?
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An annual test is the only way to know whether a backflow assembly is operating correctly. Our Backflow prevention program ensures water distribution system remains safe.
It also is required by The Department of Natural Resources. Community water systems must have backflow prevention in accordance with 10 CSR 60-11.010.
- What is backflow?
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Backflow is the unwanted reversal of flow in a water distribution system. Backflow occurs due to backpressure or back-siphonage and allows non-potable substances to enter a public water system through an unprotected cross-connection.
Backpressure occurs when the pressure in a building’s plumbing exceeds the pressure in the water distribution system.
Backsiphonage occurs when there is a partial vacuum (negative pressure) in a water supply system, drawing liquid from the non-potable source into the water distribution system.
You can find more information https://dnr.mo.gov/print/document-search/pub0393
- Why do we test annually?
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An annual test brings deficiencies to light. Backflow prevention protects public water systems from contamination or damage through cross-connections located in customer facilities. Backflow prevention is typically achieved by placing a backflow prevention assembly between the customer and the public water system. This is called containment backflow prevention.
- Who can do my Backflow test?
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A state-certified backflow tester must test your backflow assembly annually. Many landscape companies are state certified.