What is a cross-connection?

If you are asking, “What is a cross-connection?” you are likely trying to understand why a property may need backflow protection. Cross-connections create a pathway where contaminants can enter potable water if flow reverses. A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between potable water and non-potable water or substances. A cross-connection can occur in a public or consumer’s water system.

Why cross-connections create risk

Backflow is the undesirable reversal of the flow of water. When back-siphonage or backpressure causes flow to reverse, a cross-connection can allow non-potable substances to move into potable water systems. That is why cross-connections are closely tied to backflow prevention requirements.

Where cross-connections can occur

A cross-connection can occur in:

• A public water system
• A consumer’s water system
  

The key point is not the building type. The key point is that potable water connects to non-potable water or substances in some way, creating a possible pathway.

How Backflow Testing fits in

When a backflow prevention assembly is installed to help protect a cross-connection, Backflow Testing verifies the assembly is operating correctly and supports certification documentation. Backflow Prevention Services tests residential and commercial assemblies and provides certification documentation to the appropriate authorities on your behalf.

Testing schedules can vary by city. Some cities require yearly testing, while others can be three or five years. Residential schedules can also vary by application, such as every three years on irrigation and yearly on isolation assemblies.

If you have been told you have a cross-connection or you have a backflow prevention assembly on site, schedule Backflow Testing with Backflow Prevention Services. Testing helps verify protection is working as intended and supports local documentation needs.

FAQ 

What is a cross-connection in plumbing?
A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between potable water and non-potable water or substances.

Can a cross-connection exist in a home?
A cross-connection can occur in a public or consumer’s water system, which includes residential systems.

Why do cross-connections matter?
When flow reverses, a cross-connection can allow non-potable substances to enter potable water systems.

What causes flow to reverse?
Either back-siphonage or backpressure causes backflow.

How does Backflow Testing help?
Backflow Testing verifies that a backflow prevention assembly is operating properly and supports certification documentation.

“What is a cross-connection?” has a straightforward definition: it is any temporary or permanent connection between potable water and non-potable water or substances. Because cross-connections can allow contaminants into potable water when flow reverses, Backflow Testing is an important way to verify your backflow prevention assembly is working properly in Michigan. Contact Backflow Prevention Services today to schedule our services.