Knowledge Base

A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between a public water system or consumer's potable (drinking) water system and any source or system containing non-potable water or other substances.  Examples are:

• A garden hose submerged in a bucket.  Contaminated water could be drawn into the hose and back into the drinking water system.
• Pipes from an irrigation well connected to potable (drinking) water pipes on the property.
• Pipes in a factory containing chemicals mistakenly connected to potable (drinking) water pipes on-site.

The Florida Department of Health-Hillsborough County also provides relevant information on cross-connections on the below web site.

Water: Cross Connection Control | Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough (floridahealth.gov)