The goal of the City of Manchester is to supply safe water to each and every customer under all foreseeable circumstances. Each instance where water is used improperly so as to create the possibility of backflow due to cross connections threatens the health and safety of customers and chances of realizing this goal.
The possibility of backflow due to improper use of water within the customer’s premises is especially significant because such cross connections may easily result in the contamination of our water supply mains. Such situations may result in the public water system becoming a transmitter of diseased organisms, toxic materials, or other hazardous substances that may adversely affect large numbers of people.
Preventing Backflow Situations In Your Home & Business
- Be aware of cross connections and the need to eliminate or isolate them.
- Maintain air gaps on sinks and when using hoses.
- Do not submerge hoses or place hoses where they can become submerged.
- Install approved backflow prevention devices on lawn irrigation systems and fire sprinkler systems
- All backflows are required a Y-strainer.
- Use hose bib vacuum breakers on fixtures and hose connections for basements, laundry rooms, and on outside faucets/spigots.
Is it Really Important to Prevent Backflow?
Absolutely! The Tennessee Division of Water Supply requires all public water systems to operate an ongoing program to protect the water supply from contamination and possible cross connections or backflow.
Requiring customers to install a backflow prevention device on the main supply line for the property is the best way for Manchester Water to meet this requirement. This protects Manchester Water from any cross connection or backflow that may be inside a customer’s plumbing system. All Manchester water users benefit from an active, ongoing cross connection program that includes the installation of backflow prevention devices.