What is a cross-connection and backflow?
A cross-connection is any physical link between your property's drinking water supply and a source of contamination. Backflow happens when water flows in the reverse direction, potentially pulling chemicals, fertilizers, or bacteria into the clean water lines. This can happen due to a drop in water pressure from a main break, a large demand nearby, or a pump failure.
Why does Wrenford manage this?
Protecting our drinking water is a top priority. The Water and Wastewater By-law 2017-090 requires property owners to prevent any unsafe reverse flow into the public system. We follow the National Plumbing Code of Canada, the Ontario Building Code, and CSA Group standards to keep our water safe for everyone.
Who needs a backflow prevention device?
Backflow preventers are required on any private plumbing system that connects to a potential hazard. Common examples include:
- Fire sprinkler and standpipe systems
- Underground irrigation and lawn sprinklers
- Commercial and residential boilers
- Swimming pools and hot tubs
- Commercial food preparation and laundry equipment
- Industrial processing and laboratory equipment
- Temporary water connections for construction sites
Testing and reporting requirements
Backflow prevention assemblies contain internal seals, springs, and moving parts that wear out over time. To ensure they work when needed, the Backflow Prevention Assembly Testing Programme requires:
- Annual testing: Every device must be tested once a year.
- Installation and repairs: Testing is required immediately after installation, replacement, or any repair to the device or the pipes supplying it.
- City requests: The City may ask for testing at any time if there is a suspicion of contamination or missing protection.
Testing must be performed by a certified plumbing or mechanical professional licensed by the City. Only qualified testers can submit reports to the City. A $25.00 administrative fee applies for each report submission. You must keep a copy of the test report on-site and submit the official results to the Water Operations department within fifteen business days of the test date.
Tips for homeowners
You can help prevent backflow at your home by following these simple rules:
- Keep outdoor hose bibbs at least 2.5 centimetres (one inch) above the ground and never submerge the hose in a bucket, pool, or contaminated water.
- Install a hose connection vacuum breaker on all outdoor taps.
- Leave an air gap of at least 2.5 centimetres between the end of a drain line (like from a water softener or washing machine) and the floor drain.
- If you use a chemical or pesticide sprayer, never leave the hose unattended and disconnect it immediately after use.
- Boilers that use chemicals for heating require a backflow preventer on the water supply line.
Need help or have questions?
Our team can help you determine what protection your property needs. If you are a contractor or plumber, contact us to become a licensed tester. For general inquiries, reach out to the Water Operations department.
Water Operations Manager
Patrick Nguyen
519-555-0100
[email protected]
Emergency water reporting: Call 519-555-0111 after hours.