FAQs • Moline, IL • CivicEngage

Why do backflow preventers have to be tested?: Mechanical backflow preventers have internal seats, springs and moving parts that are subject to fouling, wear or fatigue. Additionally, mechanical backflow preventers (and air gaps) can be bypassed. All backflow preventers must be tested periodically to ensure that they are functioning properly. A visual check of air gaps is sufficient, but mechanical backflow preventers have to be tested with properly calibrated gauge equipment.

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Cross-Connection Control Program

1. What is a backflow?: Backflow occurs when water flows backwards through your water pipes into City water mains. Backflow can be caused when a drop in pressure occurs in the incoming water main or when pressure in the pipes inside your residential or commercial building becomes greater than the pressure in the water main. If your water pipes are connected to a source of pollution when backflow occurs, contaminants from that source can be siphoned into your drinking water, as well as that of the entire community.

2. What are common reasons for a drop in water main pressure?: The two common reasons why water mains might experience a drop in water pressure are main breaks and heavy consumption by firefighters battling a fire.

3. What is considered a source of pollution?: Any direct connection of your home or business drinking water system to a source of pollution has the potential to create a health hazard if backflow occurs during the connection. Examples of potential pollution sources include, but are not limited to: fire protection systems, lawn irrigation systems, restaurant food prep areas, chemical processing and manufacturing operations, boilers and hot water heat systems, hospital wastes, garden hoses placed in an ornamental pond or swimming pool, garden houses connected to a plant fertilizer or bug spray canister, shampoo bowl/sink, and pools/hot tubs.

4. What is a cross-connection?: A cross-connection is a link between a potable water system (water that is safe to drink) and a non-potable system (water or other liquids that are not considered safe to drink).

5. What is a cross-connection or backflow preventer?: A backflow preventer is a plumbing device which prevents the backflow of water (reversing its flow and returning to the supply system) by using a check valve, which permits flow in only one direction by using a hinged flapper or guided poppet that opens when the flow is going in one direction, but will close if the direction reverses.

6. Why do backflow preventers have to be tested?: Mechanical backflow preventers have internal seats, springs and moving parts that are subject to fouling, wear or fatigue. Additionally, mechanical backflow preventers (and air gaps) can be bypassed. All backflow preventers must be tested periodically to ensure that they are functioning properly. A visual check of air gaps is sufficient, but mechanical backflow preventers have to be tested with properly calibrated gauge equipment.

7. Who can test backflow preventers?: Any licensed plumber who is certified by the IEPA as a Cross-Connection Device Inspector (CCDI) is acceptable.

8. Where can I find a list of certified Cross-Connection Device Inspectors (CCDI)?: PDF of Approved Cross-Connection Device Inspectors Listing - Please note that this is not an endorsement by the City of Moline and the City does not assume liability for any work performed by a contractor within the City of Moline. (this will download a PDF file onto your device)

9. Who should I contact with questions about whether I currently have a backflow device and what type of device I have?: Pictures of devices in question can be e-mailed for review by the City’s Plumbing Inspector. The City’s Plumbing Inspector can also be contacted via phone at 309.524.2374.

10. Who should I contact with questions about the completion of a survey, annual testing or delinquency notifications?: Please contact the City of Moline Water Division (309.524.2300).

11. Where can I submit completed surveys or test forms?: Surveys may be completed online by selecting residential or commercial. Surveys and test forms can be e-mailed, faxed to 309.524.2314, or mailed to City of Moline Water Division, Cross-Connection Control Program at 30 18th St., Moline, IL 61265.

Keep the ends of your hoses free of any possible contaminants.
If your threaded faucets are not equipped with an in-line protection device, install an approved hose bib vacuum breaker or other backflow prevention device.
Never submerge hoses in buckets, vats, sinks, tubs or ponds.
Use spray attachments or valve spray hoses that have a device to prevent backflow.
Do not connect waste drain pipes from water softeners or other treatment systems directly to the sewer system.
Ensure all drains are air gapped (unobstructed vertical space between the water outlet and the flood level of a fixture).

13. What happens if I do not install a backflow prevention device or comply with annual testing?: In accordance with Moline Code of Ordinances, failure to comply with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s cross-connection control requirements will result in water shut off. Once a proper control device is installed or tested, the City will restore water service. In an effort to avoid water service termination, the Water Division will work closely with residents and business owners to ensure compliance.

14. What if my backflow prevention device fails the test?: If an assembly fails, it must be repaired or replaced. Replacement of an assembly requires a plumbing permit from the Building/Inspections Division at 3635 4th Ave, Moline, or 309.524.2370.

15. How do I get my backflow prevention device removed?: Removal, replacement or relocation of a backflow prevention device requires a plumbing permit from the Building/Inspections Division (3635 4th Ave, Moline or 309.524.2370). The removal of a device is not allowed until an inspection is conducted by the City and it is determined that the device is no longer needed.