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Backflow occurs when water flows in the opposite direction from its normal flow. With the direction of flow reversed, due to changes in water pressure, backflow can allow contaminants to enter the drinking water system through cross connections. Customers with potential hazards are responsible for installing and testing backflow prevention assemblies on their water service connections.The assemblies are tested when they are installed and then annually thereafter by a Greenville Utilities-certified tester. In addition, effective July 1, 2009, all new irrigation systems must be connected to a separate irrigation water meter.

GUC holds semi-annual tester's certification courses, in the spring and fall, to enable plumbers and technicians to better service the needs of our customers. The tester’s certification courses are part of our comprehensive program designed to protect our water system from harmful cross-connections. Click here for information on the next certification course. All backflow testers must complete a re-certification course every two years. Click here for information on the next re-certifcation course.

Click here for a current list of certified testers. The test results are submitted to GUC’s Water Resources Department. Click here to download the backflow test and maintenance form.

For more information about preventing backflow and GUC's Cross-Connection Control Program, call 551-3399.