Backflow

What is Backflow?

Backflow is when the water in your pipes (the pipes after the water meter) goes backwards (the opposite direction from normal flow).  There are two situations that can cause a backflow condition.

• “Back Pressure” – a pressure greater than the supply pressure that may cause backflow. (High-pressure boiler or pressure washer)
• “Back Siphonage” – the creation of a backflow as a result of negative pressure. (Water main break or use of fire hydrants)

Along with the required backflow preventers and their regular maintenance, site inspections or surveys may be performed at properties that present a potential hazard to our water systems:

• *External (“site”, or “containment”) – to protect the City’s water supply from cross-connections on the customer’s premises.
• Internal (“hazard”, or “isolation”) – to protect the customer from potentially hazardous cross-connection in their own system.

Salida's Cross Connection Control Program

The City of Salida proudly supplies millions of gallons of safe, clean water every day to our customers. Our water quality exceeds the standards established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Colorado Regulations.

CDPHE Regulations and Colorado Plumbing Codes require every water supplier to develop and implement a comprehensive cross connection control program for the elimination of all existing cross-connections and the prevention of all future cross connections.

The City of Salida has contracted with Aqua Backflow to assist with the Water Utility's Cross Connection Control Program. Your cooperation and courtesy is appreciated as we perform the required tasks to complete the program. Please note that you may be asked to test or install backflow protection where needed in accordance with Colorado Plumbing Code. 

To learn more, explore the brochure below.