City of Deland

What is a cross-connection? A cross-connection occurs when there's any temporary or permanent link between a public water system and a non-potable water source. Examples include connections between municipal water and auxiliary systems like cooling or irrigation systems.

What is backflow? Backflow happens when non-potable water flows backward through cross-connections into the clean water system. This can occur through backpressure or back siphonage, potentially introducing contaminants into your drinking supply.

How can backflow be prevented? Backflow preventers create barriers against contamination. These include air gaps that eliminate cross-connections or mechanical devices like reduced-pressure assemblies, vacuum breaker assemblies, and double-check valve assemblies. Residential dual check valves offer secondary protection.

Understanding backflow risks: Consider this scenario - a homeowner using a garden hose attachment to spray herbicide experiences a water pressure drop, causing chemicals to be drawn back into the hose. Later drinking from this hose could result in accidental poisoning. This illustrates the dangers of back siphonage when pressure drops in water mains, which commonly occurs during firefighting or main repairs.

Protect your water by following these simple steps:

• Never submerge hoses in buckets, pools, or sinks
• Keep hose ends clear of potential contaminants
• Use backflow prevention devices with spray attachments
• Install inexpensive backflow preventers on threaded faucets

Reclaimed water information: Reclaimed water undergoes extensive treatment and disinfection, making it largely free of harmful microorganisms. While excellent for irrigation, it's not suitable for human or animal consumption. As Florida's freshwater demands increase, reclaimed water helps reduce pressure on the Floridan Aquifer, our primary water source.

The City of DeLand works diligently to provide quality water to every tap. We ask all residents to help protect our vital water resources for our community's future.

1. What causes water hardness in Deland?

Water hardness in Deland primarily results from naturally occurring calcium and magnesium minerals in our groundwater source. These minerals dissolve as water moves through limestone formations common in Florida's aquifers.

2. How often is Deland's water tested?

The City of Deland conducts rigorous testing according to EPA schedules, with some contaminants tested daily, others weekly, monthly, or annually depending on regulatory requirements and potential risk factors.

3. What should I do if I notice unusual taste or odor?

Contact the water utility at 386-740-6853 to report concerns. Temporary changes in taste or odor can occur during maintenance or seasonal changes but may also indicate issues requiring attention.