Wichita water customers who have irrigation systems have been urged to get their backflow tested, and to have a working backflow device. This is to ensure that water for irrigation systems does not mix with pesticides, fertilizers and other contaminants that could flow back into the water system.
The backflow devices are required by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, and the annual backflow certification for Wichita water customers was due May 30th. Notices were sent to accounts that have not complied with the requirement, and door hang notices were also being left at properties a week before disconnection was to take place. The city plans to begin disconnections on Tuesday, September 12th.
Water customers can schedule a backflow test and call the water department with their appointment date to avoid being disconnected. If residents have a sprinkler system that is connected to city water and they haven’t yet completed backflow testing, they need to do that as soon as possible.
Residents can get more information on the city’s web site at wichita.gov/backflow or by calling 316-219-8916. The web site has a list of technicians that residents can call for backflow testing.
