NOT Heating Question: PVB

Patchogue Phil_29

From what I am hearing, the plumbing inspectors are not requiring a backflow protector on residential irrigation systems.

Patchogue Phil_32

Irrigation Backflow prevention not required here?

I am looking for some kind of "proof" that PVB or backflow prevention is NOT required on residential (1 or 2 family) irrigation systems here on Long Island in Suffolk County Water Authority.

SCWA website just says that one is required only if a threat of contamination exists (i.e. attached with chemical injection, etc etc).

Anyone have an actual link to this situation?

TJ_5

Backflow

Why take any chance with croscontamination.

Don \"Grumpy\" Walsh

Principle of it.

Phil, I think I read your question as being one of disbelief that a back flow device would not be mandated in this case. I have the personal feeling that we are (as professionals) obligated to take the high ground on an issue like this. I just refuse to connect anything, to a system that has the possibility of cross contamination, without a backflow device. There is a real need to save potable water systems which far exceeds some ignorant reasoning about saving a few lousy bucks. Just refuse to connect it without one!

Patchogue Phil_29

not taking chances

Chance is not the point. I'm looking for info that says it is not needed (or it is needed), to show someone else.

Patchogue Phil_29

you're right

I am amazed if it is true that a backflow prevention on RESIDENTIAL irrigation is NOT REQUIRED on Long Island.

Everyone I talk to in irrigation biz says "they" used to require a backflow prevention or even a dbl check w/backflow prevention. But it is not required any longer. I am looking for the "official" decree.

Patchogue Phil_29

Well, I'll be....

Hmmm.

I just now called Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA 1-631-563-0266) and asked about it. They said that they cannot mandate that a backflow prevention device be installed on residential irrigation systems. According to SCWA, someone challenged the requirement and the NY State Dept of Health ruled that it cannot be required. Though SCWA recommends it be installed, they cannot MAKE you put one in for residential irrigation. For commercial irrigation it is required.

amhplumb_2

Backflow Pevention Device

There is in fact a potential for contamination from lawn irrigation systems into the potable water system. One example is water ponding a little after the system finishes it's cycle, under the right conditions that water (after it has come in contact with the ground) could be siphoned back into the piping if it is not protected by a backflow prevention device. I'm surprised that a device is not required in your area.

Joe Brix

I wonder....

...what the local EPA office would say about this??

Rich Kontny_4

Scenario

There is a hazard waiting to happen.Let's say the lawn has been fertilized and one or more of the retractable heads are sitting in a water pool. The contaminated water could easily be syphoned back if a water main breaks and water is shut off and the water drains back. This would create backflow.

I cringe when I see the Miracle Grow,insecticide and other hose attachments that are advertised and screw on to hoses.All it would take is a homeowner to leave one of these on a hose and have a backflow situation occur. Before you know it the hazardous contents are pulled back into the public water system.

In this day and age I would protect myself by installing the backflow device rather than assuming the liability of a potentially hazardous installation.

D107

in nassau county once one is installed

I believe it has to be inspected annually and a form filled out--not sure if it has to be put in in the first place, though. But with irrigation systems, as y'all say, it would be foolish not to.

Since they make Backflow Preventers and PRVs in one unit, why not put one in and be done with it?

David Goldlman
(HO)

amhplumb_2

Another thought!

Another thought, who has jurisdiction over the plumbing in the building? I'm not from your area, but it sounds to me like you have been dealing with the water purveyer. Their only concern could be that there is a backflow prevention device on the water service so that the municipal mains are protected. That is how we do it in our area. They have no jurisdicion past the main. The plumbing inspection department handles the rest. Our plumbing code based on the IPC requires lawn irrigation systems to be protected.