Backflow Prevention & Cross Connection

CROSS CONNECTION & BACKFLOW PREVENTION

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) requires every water supply provider to develop and implement a backflow prevention control program. The program mandates surveying all water customers every two years to identify and eliminate connections that could allow contaminants to accidentally flow back into the drinking water from fire protection sprinkler systems, boilers, lawn sprinklers, and swimming pools.

The Village of Montgomery's Water Division is responsible for maintaining the village's water distribution system by providing residential, commercial, and industrial public water supply users with safe, clean, and adequate water quantity and quality.

What is a cross-connection?
A cross-connection connects a drinking and non-drinking water supply, where a contaminant could enter the water supply. Cross-connections should be protected by a valve called a backflow preventer.

What is a backflow preventer?
A backflow preventer is a device that allows the water to only flow in one direction and prevents a pipe or device connected to the water supply line from allowing water to flow back into the municipal supply system.

Who has responsibility for installing backflow preventers?
Property owners are responsible for installing, annual testing, and maintaining backflow preventers. Water customers must contract with a licensed professional to perform the required annual tests and make any necessary repairs. Most plumbing contractors can install and repair backflow preventers and are certified to test them.