As seen in the Bethpage Newsgram September 15, 2022

Residents and Commercial Properties Must Test Their Backflow Devices Annually, Deadline for Test Compliance Submission is December 31, 2022

Plainview, NY (September 12, 2022)—The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind Plainview-Old Bethpage residents and commercial customers that the New York State Health Department (NYSDOH) and Nassau County Health Department require annual testing of backflow devices. This compliance testing must be performed by a certified backflow tester and completed prior to December 31, 2022 to ensure these devices are functioning properly.

“It is crucial to verify that a backflow device is functioning properly to ensure that potentially harmful contaminants are kept out of the POB community’s water system,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “Backflow devices keep harmful chemicals like fertilizers, weed killers, and other lawn products from finding their way into the water distribution system water mains should a low-pressure event occur.”

Backflow devices are mechanical double-check valves that prevent water flow from reversing away from a building in the event of a loss of water pressure. A loss in pressure can occur when a fire is being put out or there is a water main break. These devices must be tested annually to make certain they are installed and functioning properly. Residents are required to have a backflow device if they have any of the following: in-ground sprinklers, fire lines, swimming pools, or a private well that is interconnected with the public water supply.

“Practicing prevention is a key component of keeping yourself and your neighbors throughout the POB community safe, as it is impossible to predict when and where an emergency resulting in a drop of pressure may occur,” said Commissioner Andrew Bader. “Testing backflow devices is part of these necessary precautionary and preventative efforts for all customers in our District. If a backflow device is not properly installed, chemicals and other pollutants can potentially and unknowingly infiltrate the community’s water.”

The District encourages all residents and businesses to arrange for a NYSDOH certified backflow tester to conduct their annual backflow test to avoid any potential penalties for noncompliance. The Plainview Water District keeps an up-to-date list of New York State licensed backflow testers on its website, www.plainviewwater.org/resources/backflow/. The District also maintains its own dedicated Cross-Connection Control Department to help residents with compliance questions that can be reached at 516-931-6469.

“We encourage residents to make this annual backflow testing a priority within their households, as it is such an important aspect of helping us Preserve Plainview,” said PWD Commissioner Amanda Field “We ask that any POB resident that may have any questions or concerns regarding backflow testing to please reach out to the District, so we can assist you in this important process.”

If you have questions or seek additional information, please call the District at 516-931-6469 or email info@plainviewwater.org. Residents are also encouraged to sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.