Filed under Backflow & Commercial · By Michael and the team at The Irish Plumber
What is backflow?
Backflow happens when water flows backwards, from a building's plumbing into the public water supply. It can be caused by a pressure drop in the City main (a water main break, or heavy firefighting use) or by equipment in the building pushing water back. If that water has been in contact with chemicals, boiler systems, irrigation or process equipment, it can contaminate drinking water for the neighbourhood.
What the City requires
Under Ottawa's Water By-law, many industrial, commercial, institutional and multi-residential properties must have a premise isolation backflow prevention device. It's installed where water enters the building and protects the public supply from everything inside. The device has to be:
- Installed to the CSA standard the City references, with a building permit where required
- Tested by a qualified tester and kept in working order
- Documented, with test results submitted as the City requires
Who it applies to
Typically restaurants and commercial kitchens, offices, retail and plazas, clinics, schools, places of worship, and apartment and condo buildings, especially those with boilers, irrigation or fire sprinkler systems. Single-family homes generally aren't included.
Got a backflow letter from the City?
Send it to us. We'll tell you what applies, install what's needed, and keep your testing on schedule.
How we help
- Assessment of your building and existing devices
- Installation or replacement of the right assembly, with the permit
- Testing, repairs and re-tests as needed
- Reminders before your next test is due