Cross-Connections

Cross-connections that could contaminate drinking water distribution lines are a major concern. A cross-connection is formed at any point where a drinking water line connects to equipment. The City of Sultan requires those connections to be tested each year in the spring.

Outside water taps and garden hoses tend to be the most common sources of cross-connection contamination at home. The garden hose creates a hazard when submerged in a swimming pool or attached to a chemical sprayer for weed killing and insect control. Garden hoses that are left lying on the ground may be contaminated by fertilizers, cesspools, or garden chemicals. Improperly installed valves in your toilet could also be a source of cross-connection contamination. When a drop in water pressure takes place, chemicals or dirty water can be sucked backwards into your household plumbing system.

Community water supplies are continually jeopardized by cross-connections unless appropriate devices are installed and maintained. We survey all industrial, commercial, institutional facilities, and properties with wells, irrigation systems, and auxiliary water sources that have City water service to make sure all potential cross-connections are identified and eliminated or protected by a backflow preventer to make sure it is providing maximum protection.

More Information

For more information, visit the American Backflow Prevention Association website for a discussion on current issues or email Mike Williams.