Backflow & Cross-Connection

The goal of Nolensville/College Grove Utility District is to supply safe water to each and every customer under all foreseeable circumstances and to ensure that all customers are aware of the potential hazards associated with backflow and cross-connections.

What Is Backflow and a Cross-Connection?

Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow of non-potable water or other substances through a cross-connection and into the piping of a public water system or consumer's potable water system. This reversal of flow can allow contaminated water to flow backward, drawing a contaminant into the water supply.

Cross-connections are defined as the physical connection of a safe or potable water supply with another supply of unknown or contaminated quality, such that the potable water could be contaminated or polluted.

If you have any of the following, a backflow device or air gap system may be required:

1. Lawn irrigation systems
2. Residential fire protection systems (closed loop systems)
3. Pools, saunas, hot tubs, fountains
4. Auxiliary intakes and supplies such as wells, cisterns, ponds, streams, etc.
5. Home water treatment systems
6. Garden hoses immersed in any type of container or attached to a sprayer
7. Any other situation or condition deemed a threat by the water system

Backflow Device Testing

N/CG Utility District has contracted with American Backflow Inspectors (ABI) to test all irrigation and commercial backflow devices. National Fire Sprinklers, Inc. tests all fire sprinkler systems.

ABI begins testing irrigation systems in May of each year. It is the customer's responsibility to have the backflow device ready to test. There is a $60 testing fee each time a trip is made to test the device. Fire system tests begin in November each year — you will be contacted prior to testing.

American Backflow Inspectors has helpful suggestions for getting ready for your test at abibackflow.com.

Links to Other Information

• American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA)
• American Water Works Association