What is a Backflow Device?

Their primary function is to prevent cross contamination of the city's potable water system. National water codes and guidelines call for approved backflow protection on all lawn sprinkler systems and the backflow protection be tested yearly and maintained in working condition. At installation, it is the property owner's responsibility to provide the proper Live Oak Backflow Test & Maintenance (T&M) form with the test results for recording purposes. Each year a letter and Backflow T&M report form will be mailed to the property owner as a reminder to provide the City with the annual test results.

Pictured is a typical residential backflow device.

This is required by Texas Commission of Environmental Quality (TECQ) and the following adopted Plumbing Code:

International Plumbing Code-608.16.5 Connections to lawn irrigation systems. The potable water supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be protected against backflow by an atmospheric-type vacuum breaker, a pressure-type vacuum breaker or a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer.

30 TAC 290 Subchapter D: Rules and Regulations for public water systems 290.44(h) (1) No water connection from any public drinking water system shall be allowed to any residence or establishment where an actual or potential contamination hazard exists unless the public water facilities are protected from contamination.

Backflow Assembly Test Report