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1. What is backflow?

Backflow is used to describe a condition that occurs when a difference in water pressure causes contaminants to enter the municipal water distribution system and/or the customer’s water piping.  The two most common kinds of backflow conditions are back
pressure, where a device such as a pump forces higher pressure water and contaminates into the distribution system against the existing system pressure, and back siphoning, where a sudden
loss of system pressure (due to a water main break or heavy demand) causes
contaminates to be drawn into the distribution system.  Backflow prevention assemblies are designed
to sense these conditions and react to prevent contamination.

 

2. How does ONWASA protect the public water system against Backflow contamination?

ONWASA has adopted rules and regulations, based upon State and Federal laws, that require the installation of backflow prevention assemblies at locations that have been identified as having potential hazards to the public water distribution system should a backflow condition occur. This includes all commercial properties and residential properties meeting certain criteria identified in Article VI of the ONWASA Utility Ordinance. Backflow assemblies are also required to be tested annually by a Certified Tester to ensure they function and continually protect the public water system. A link to Article IV may be found below.

3. Why do I have to install a blackflow assembly if my neighbors do not have them?

The ONWASA Utility Ordinance requires the need for backflow prevention be reviewed for all new construction, at any time there is a change in the property’s owner or water service account holder, or whenever a hazard is identified by ONWASA personnel through an on-site survey. When your neighbors sell their property or the water service account changes, a site survey will be performed and if a backflow hazard is identified an installation will be required at that time. Residential properties where no identified hazard exists are not required to install a backflow assembly.

4. How can I tell if water/sewer service is available to my property?

ONWASA water and sewer mains are located either within public street right-of-ways or within public utility easements that run through private property or along private streets. Properties that have frontage along these locations and where water and/or sewer mains already exist have direct access and can apply for a new service connection. If the main is located in a private street or the new service line must cross private property, additional easement(s) may be necessary to cover your new water or sewer service up to and including the meter or first sewer cleanout. For additional information or to find out if water or sewer is available to your property, please call the Technical Operations Supervisor at (910) 937-7526. Information on fees associated with new service may be found on the latest Rate and Fee Schedule under the Customer link above or by contacting Customer Service at (910) 455-0722.

5. If I don't have direct access to a water or sewer main, will ONWASA extend a water and/or sewer main to my property?

ONWASA may extend water or sewer mains as required to build, maintain or upgrade existing system features (such as a water or sewer treatment facility); however, ONWASA does not extend water or sewer mains upon request due to the expense and limited funding available. Any extensions necessary to serve existing residential areas must be paid for by the recipients of the service. For additional information or to find out if water or sewer is available to your property, please call the Technical Operations Supervisor at (910) 937-7526.

6. Why are there blue or green marks and/or flags in my yard?

These markings mean a utility locate request has been called in for construction work that will be done on or near your property. Blue lines and flags indicate there is a buried water main or service in that area, while green lines and flags indicated buried sewer lines. Any time someone needs to make an excavation, they are required by the State’s NC811 law to make a request for all buried utilities to be located and marked prior to the performing the work. Requests may be made by calling 811, entering the information at the NC811 website or with their downloadable mobile application. This is a free service. Additional information on NC811 regulations and contacts for companies that perform locates on private lines may be found at NC811.org.