Backflow Prevention

If the Cross Connection Control Program indicates that a property needs a backflow prevention device in order to protect public health, a backflow prevention device will need to be installed in order for the property to continue to be served by PWD. Failure to comply with the PWD Cross Connection Control Program may result in…

Substantial renovations are defined as renovations where a building’s plumbing system, including the water service to the building is removed, replaced, or expanded.  Renovations need not involve major structural changes to be considered substantial by the District.

No.  Grandfathered fire sprinkler systems are required to install backflow prevention devices when the systems are upgraded or redevelopment to the property occurs. 

Costs vary from a basic residential backflow preventer to a more complex commercial systems. It is best to contact your plumber and get a quote before work begins. 

The State of Maine requires that all public drinking water suppliers maintain a cross connection control program and update it every 5 years. During the recent update, PWD aligned its program with stricter EPA’s guidelines to further protect public safety.

Possibly. It depends on the location of the assembly, the type of assembly installed, and the amount of water flowing through the assembly.

No. Having a backflow preventer installed at your meter only protects the public water system. There may be unprotected cross-connection issues within your property. Contact your plumber to discuss other preventative measures you can take to further protect your property from backflows. 

Backflow prevention in a drinking water system is an in-line assembly that is used to keep undesirable water from entering the drinking water system during a backflow event. Your plumber will be able to assist you with the correct device for your system.  Generally, for residential water systems, a non-testable dual check valve assembly is…

Irrigation systems, hose bibs, boilers, radiant heat systems, wells, docks, ponds, fountains, pressure boosting systems, pools, spas, graywater systems, rain water collection systems, reclaimed water, and solar heating systems are just a few examples of hazards that could contaminate the drinking water system. A cross connection is a connection between a potable drinking water pipe…

Commercial devices are required to be tested annually and results filed with the Portland Water District. A list of certified backflow inspectors can be found on the PWD web site.  Non-testable backflow devices do not need to be tested.