Backflow Prevention Devices

Where and why are they required?

 

The Island Water Association is responsible to provide safe, high-quality potable water throughout Sanibel and Captiva Islands. An important part of maintaining the integrity of the water is protecting against contamination through cross connections and back siphonage into the water distribution system. IWA’s Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program (CCCBPP) was developed in accordance with the Florida Administrative Code 62-555.360, which requires appropriate backflow prevention strategies based on the location and degree of hazard. 

Backflow Prevention Device

IWA will notify members if a backflow prevention device is required at their property. In general, the following situations will require the installation and routine testing of a backflow prevention device:

  • Any service connections established after 1997.

  • Any service connection that is classified as “Commercial” or “Multi-Family Residential” (serves more than one residence).

  • Any residence that has been completely remodeled or any service where the water mater has been upgraded (increased in size).

  • Any property served by a reclaim water system or private well source.

  • Any dedicated fire service connection (FSC).

  • Any property with an installed backflow device, regardless of whether a hazard exists at that service connection.

  • Any service connection where a higher degree of protection is required, as determined by IWA.

The Florida Administrative Code and IWA’s CCCBPP require routine testing of all backflow prevention devices to ensure they are working as intended. As a service to our members, IWA distribution personnel will inspect and test backflow devices, at no charge, for commercial and residential service connections, up to 2.5”. If any deficiencies are found during annual inspection and testing, Members are notified by mail. In accordance with IWA’s CCCBPP, all repairs and maintenance are the responsibility of the member. 

Backflow devices 3” or larger, are the responsibility of the Member to have tested and to submit the certified inspection report to IWA.

Regular inspection and testing for backflow prevention assemblies serving a dedicated FSC is required by state law and must be performed by a licensed fire service professional. Annual inspection and testing, as well as any required maintenance and repairs, are solely the responsibility of the property owner. All fire systems, commercial and residential, are required to display up-to-date inspection tags to verify they are being inspected, tested, and maintained regularly.

IWA’s Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program is available to be viewed here. Written copies are also available by stopping by our office.

Installation instructions for domestic and fire sprinkler systems can be viewed here.

Backflow specifications sheet for reduced pressure (RP) backflow assemblies can be viewed here.

Backflow specifications sheet for double check (DC) backflow assemblies can be viewed here.

If you have any questions about cross connections or backflow prevention, please contact IWA’s Distribution Coordinator, Bill Epranian. He may be reached at 239.395.4829. You can also contact him via e-mail at bille@islandwater.com.