Annual Backflow Assembly Testing Begins in April

It is that time of year for residential and commercial irrigation customers to have their backflows tested. Customer notifications are being mailed through the first two weeks of April. The due date for the City’s annual irrigation backflows is June 1.

The Public Utilities Department requires periodic testing of all backflow assemblies and is notifying customers whose backflow assembly is due for testing. Each notification provides timelines for completion of the testing. Not every residential irrigation system owner will receive a letter, as testing for residential irrigation backflow assemblies is required once every three years.

An irrigation system is not just a way for water to get out. Incorrectly maintained, an irrigation system can be a way for contaminants to get into the water system.
The backflow assembly is one of the most vital pieces of an irrigation system. The assembly is designed to protect the City's water system from potential contaminants such as fertilizers and pesticides. Without a properly working backflow assembly, a drop in water pressure could result in these contaminants entering the water supply system.

Since 1987, the City of Raleigh’s Public Utilities Department has maintained a cross connection control program. The program is responsible for overseeing the annual and triennial testing of backflow assemblies in the City’s water service area. Backflow assemblies are required on irrigation systems, fire suppression systems, and domestic services connected to the City’s water supply as a means to protect against cross contamination.

Let’s all do our part to make sure that the water remains safe.

You may also contact the City of Raleigh’s Cross Connection Control Program at 919-996-2373, or by email at cross.connection@raleighnc.gov.