Backflow prevention is essential for protecting our drinking water from the dangers of backflow. Water flows to your tap in pressurized underground water pipes. Typically, water flows in one direction, although under certain circumstances it can flow in the opposite direction, or "backflow". When backflow occurs, water runs backwards through the water system causing non-potable water to flow into the public water supply.

Typically, backflow prevention devices are required for plumbing system connections that contain chemicals or industrial fluids, irrigation systems, fertilizers or auxiliary water sources (including reclaimed water). 

Backflow preventers are mechanical plumbing devices installed in a plumbing system to prevent water from flowing backward in the system.  A properly installed, tested and maintained backflow preventer at the service entrance to a building or property can reliably prevent the backflow of water of an unknown quality from flowing back into the community water system.

Backflow Solutions, Inc.

(BSI ONLINE) administers the City of Rittman Backflow Prevention Program, ensuring backflow prevention devices are installed and maintained in compliance with federal, state and local codes. Click below to be directed to our compliance management company.

Annual Testing

The City sends notifications, through BSI Online, to most businesses 30 days prior to their testing due date. As of 2019, the City does not require residents to install a backflow devise on older homes.  The Wayne County building code requires this on all new homes and has done so for the last 20 years. For help determining if you have or need a backflow device, please contact the Utilities Director at 330-925-2062.  Not all devices are testable.

Cross Connection

A connection between drinking water pipes and any source of potential contamination is a cross connection. When the water pressure changes from internal usage or water system fluctuations, contaminated water may backflow into your plumbing from unprotected cross connections. Common household cross connections are garden hoses left in chemicals or in a pool and attachments to hoses used to apply lawn chemicals.