Memphis Light, Gas and Water - Cross Connection

Cross Connection

In order to protect the public's health and drinking water quality, Memphis Light, Gas and Water has established a Cross Connection Control Program . This program establishes requirements for residential, commercial and industrial customers that may have systems or processes considered potentially hazardous to MLGW's potable water system.

What is a Cross Connection?
A Cross Connection is any actual or potential connection between your drinking water system and any non-potable source that could result in contamination of the potable water system.

What is Backflow?
Backflow occurs when the water in your pipes goes in the opposite direction of normal flow. There are two conditions that cause backflow:

Backpressure - when the pressure in your pipes is greater than the pressure in the water distribution system.

Backsiphonage - when there is a sudden reduction of pressure in the water distribution system that causes fluids (water, chemicals, etc.) from your pipes to be sucked into the water distribution system.

How Does MLGW Protect the Potable Water System?
MLGW has a Cross Connection Control Program that requires customers to provide adequate protection of the water distribution system per MLG&W policies and all local, state, and federal regulations. MLGW requires devices be tested per requirements of Tennessee Department of Conservation (TDEC).

Any residential, commercial or industrial customer that refuses to comply and have the devices tested is subject to having the water shut off until the devices are in compliance. A reconnect fee will be added to the MLGW utility bill if the water is cut-off due to cross connection non-compliance.

► In order to protect the water supply from being contaminated, we are conducting a survey of residential customers to determine if there are any hazardous conditions that could affect our drinking water. We appreciate you taking the time to complete this survey. If you have any questions regarding this survey please contact the Cross Connection Group at 901-528-7757 or crossconnection@mlgw.org.