The Kittery Water District is required by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to protect our customers from potential sources of cross connections within the distribution system that could pollute the public drinking water system. Since 1997 the Kittery Water District has required that all new commercial customers install a Reduced Principal Zone (RPZ) backflow prevention device. Due to the fact that commercial establishments present a higher hazard and have the potential of creating cross connections of the public water supply, the installation of an RPZ (Reduced Principal Zone) valve offers the best protection of any mechanical device that is installed to protect against cross connections. A cross connection is the reverse flow of potable water or any other substance from being either siphoned out or forced out into our distribution system during a back pressure condition. This device would be located directly after the water meter where the water line enters the building. All backflow devices must be inspected and tested by a certified backflow device inspector and the written report showing compliance must be received by the Kittery Water District by JUNE 30 each year. Depending on the degree of hazard of the business, more frequent testing may be required. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure this inspection is completed.
The District is now taking a proactive approach to enhance our cross-connection control program by requiring all commercial customers to comply with these same standards. If you are a commercial customer and do not currently have a RPZ valve installed, you can expect to receive a letter from the District asking for compliance within 6 months of receiving the letter. In addition, to keep the interruption of water service to one event, we are working with the plumber to replace the water meter at the same time.