Homeowners in 11 Harris County neighborhoods must have backflow prevention devices on their sprinkler systems, pools and spas to protect the public drinking water supply, Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 71 said in guidance published Friday, Aug. 7.
The district experienced an emergency water main break on July 8 that caused service interruptions and low pressure across parts of the system. Pressure drops like that are the kind of event that can trigger backflow, pulling contaminated water from private plumbing, irrigation lines or pools back into the public supply.
Who needs a device
HCMUD 71 requires backflow prevention devices on all sprinkler systems, spas, pools and certain commercial properties. The district may also require other users to install devices under its Rate Order.
There is no grandfather clause. Under Texas Commission on Environmental Quality rules, any hazard must be isolated from the drinking water supply regardless of when the property was built or the connection was first created. Devices must be tested upon installation and at least once a year, according to TCEQ guidance.
A public water system can terminate service to any connection where an unprotected health hazard is found.
What residents should do
The district flagged lawn sprinkler systems as the most common residential risk. Sprinklers may connect to fertilizer injectors, sit below grade or be exposed to standing water, all of which can allow contaminants to be pulled toward the drinking water supply during a pressure change.
HCMUD 71 also warned against leaving garden hoses submerged in pools, buckets or chemical containers. Hose-end sprayers used for fertilizers, cleaners or pesticides should be disconnected after each use and never left attached.
Neighborhoods affected
The district serves Westland Creek Village, Lakes of Bridgewater, Bridgewater Point, Bridgewater Village, Enclave at Bridgewater, Mason Lakes, Morton Ranch, Bridgewater Meadow, The Lakes at Mason Park, Bridgewater Place and Vineyard Meadow.
Residents with questions about whether their property needs a device, or when testing is due, can contact the district's operator, Regional Water Corporation, at (281) 897-9100. The HCMUD 71 board normally meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 21437 Clay Road, Katy, at 6 p.m.
