BACKFLOW PREVENTION
What Is Backflow?
Water systems are designed to flow in one direction. However, a drop in pressure or a break in a water line can send water flowing in the opposite direction - drawing contaminants and other chemicals into our water system. This reversal of flow is called backflow, or back-siphoning. Backflow into our public water system can pollute or contaminate the potable (drinking) water making the water unsafe to drink. The Henry County Water Authority has a responsibility to provide safe drinking water under all foreseeable circumstances.
What Is A Cross Connection?
Each customer connection to our public water system represents a potential cross connection and must be protected in order to prevent backflow into our public system. Installation and maintenance of appropriate backflow prevention devices prevent contamination via cross-connection.
Our Cross Connection Control Program:
Our GIS & Water Loss Department administers our backflow prevention program in accordance with our Cross Connection Control Program Manual.
- Approving the Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Data and Maintenance Report. For directions on how to complete the maintenance report, click here.
- Certifying backflow testers and maintaining an Approved Tester List.
- Each tester must sign and submit the HCWA Approved Tester Code of Conduct and Application before being placed on the HCWA Approved Tester List.
Customer is responsible for having their backflow device(s) installed according to our specification and tested by an approved tester. HCWA does not install or test commercial backflow devices.
Backflow Prevention/Thermal Expansion Requirements
- Toilet Thermal Expansion Relief Valve
- Potable Water Expansion Tanks
- Combination Ball and Relief Valve
- Calibrated Pressure Relief Valves
Devices can be found at most hardware stores. They are made from a variety of manufacturers including:
For additional information on backflow prevention and thermal expansion, please refer to the following documents:
- What is a Cross Connection (Backflow)?
- What is Thermal Expansion?
- Protect Your Water Heater From Thermal Expansion
- Backflow Questions, Answers,& Illustrations
- American Backflow Prevention Association
Quick Links
- Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Data and Maintenance Report
- HCWA Approved Backflow Testers List
- Certified Backflow Tester Application
- Connection Control Program Manual
- HCWA Approved Tester Code of Conduct
If you have any questions regarding the Cross Connection Control Program, please call 770.914.3688 between the hours of 8:00AM - 5:00PM or email backflow@hcwa.com.