
When Water Flows Backward: The Hidden Contamination Risk in Distribution Systems
Turning on a tap should deliver clean, safe drinking water. This relies on a simple principle: water flows in one direction from treatment plants through distribution pipes to homes and businesses. But what happens when that flow suddenly reverses?
Backflow happens when pressure dynamics in water systems change unexpectedly. Sudden pressure drops or external systems that create excessive pressure reverse the normal flow direction, allowing contaminated water to flow back through the plumbing system into clean water supplies. Communities worldwide have faced severe health crises when backflow allowed pesticides, industrial chemicals, sewage, and other hazardous substances to enter their drinking water.






