BACKFLOW

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 If you have a well or irrigation system on your property. If you own a business such as a pet groomer, restaurant, veterinarian, dentist office etc. you are required by law to install and maintain a backflow prevention device. This device must be tested annually. 

 Once your test is completed by a Certified Backflow Assembly Tester you must provide Manchester Water District with a copy of the results. 

 Backflow, also known as a cross-connection, is the undesirable reversal of the flow of water from its intended direction in any pipeline or plumbing system. Backflow is dangerous because it can allow unregulated water or other contaminants into the public water supply. A backflow preventer is a mechanical device required by law to protect public health, and must be tested upon installation and annually thereafter. Tests must be performed by a state certified backflow assembly tester. Failure to do so may result in discontinuation of service. For further information regarding backflow devices and the District's cross-connection control program, please call our office at 360-871-0500. 

There may be several reasons why you have not received any backflow test due notifications. The most common reason is that Manchester Water District was not notified about the installation or modification of a system requiring a backflow test.  

A Certified Backflow Assembly Tester must perform this test.  You may find a list of registered professionals here. *Please Note: The list provided is not inclusive to Manchester Water District. Any certified backflow assembly tester may perform assembly testing as long as they can provide a copy of their current certification card and calibration report with the completed test form. 

 The law requires that your backflow prevention assembly be tested annually to ensure that it is working properly. Failure to test the assembly increases the risk that it will fail to protect the water supply. Manchester Water District will mail reminder notifications about backflow assembly testing requirements to you annually. However, please be aware that it is the water service customer’s responsibility to ensure that the assemblies are tested on time. If an assembly is not tested, Manchester Water District will take action, starting with assessing fees and leading to termination of water service.
Manchester Water will make every effort to work with the customer to avoid these actions from being taken, but we must ensure that the drinking water system is protected.