What is back-siphonage?

Back-siphonage occurs when there is a sudden reduction in the water pressure in the distribution system, such as if a water main breaks or if the Fire Department uses a large amount of water to fight a fire. When this occurs water flow can be reversed. This can create a suction effect, drawing contaminates into the drinking water system.

Show All Answers

1. What is a cross-connection?
2. How can I prevent a cross-connection?
3. What is backflow?
4. How can a backflow occur?
5. What is back-pressure?
6. What is back-siphonage?
7. Why do water suppliers need to control cross-connections and protect their public water systems against backflow?
8. How can backflow into the City water system be prevented?
9. How do I prevent a cross-connection with my recycled water or rainwater irrigation system?
10. What is a backflow prevention assembly?
11. Who is responsible for the testing and maintenance of the backflow prevention assembly?
12. How do I find a city recognized tester?
13. How do I get added to the city's recognized tester list?