Residential Dual Connection Removal

Per City Code, a physical piping connection between the City’s potable drinking water system and non-potable pressurized irrigation water systems is not allowed on residential properties. These piping connections, called Dual Connections, must be removed. 

Dual Connection Removal Requirements

  1. Inspection and Approval
    1. All removal work must be inspected and approved by the City before any piping is covered.
    2. This inspection ensures the work meets City removal requirements.
    3. To schedule an inspection, call 208-985-1223 (Meridian Cross-Connection Control Section).
  2. Removal Process

The following pipe alterations are required when removing Dual Connections. The numbers in parentheses go with the image below.

  1. Remove the Main Valve (3), then plug or remove the tee and reconnect the home service line.
  2. Remove the Drain Valve (4) and Upstream Piping (5)
  3. Remove the Backflow Assembly (6)
  4. Remove the Downstream piping (7) and cap or plug underground

Dual Connection Example and Information

For information about a specific section of the dual connection example, please refer to the corresponding numbers below.

A basic residential water system set up with details on what is shown on the webpage

 

  1. Meter Valve Box with Water Meter and Setter – Normally located on the front left or right side of the property.
  2. Potable Water Service Line – This line connects the water meter to the customer’s home.
  3. Sprinkler Main Valve – On/off valve connected to the potable water service line and is used to feed water to the sprinkler system. Normally found in a tube near the backflow prevention assembly.
  4. Sprinkler Drain Valve – Used to drain water out of the upstream piping when needed. Normally found in a tube near the backflow prevention assembly next to the sprinkler main valve.
  5. Upstream Piping – Water piping connected from the sprinkler main and drain valves to the backflow prevention assembly.
  6. Backflow Prevention Assembly – Possible types of backflow prevention assemblies installed:
    1. Reduced Pressure Backflow Assembly (RPBA)
    2. Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA)
    3. Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)
  7. Downstream Piping – Water piping connected from the backflow prevention assembly to the sprinkler system.
  8. Irrigation Control Valve Box – Used to operate the sprinkler system.
  9. Hose Bib – Connected to the sprinkler system if installed.
  10. Sprinkler Heads – Connected to the sprinkler system.
  11. Pressurized Irrigation Main Line – This line, connected to other lines, delivers non-potable water to properties for their sprinkler systems. 
  12. Non-Potable Irrigation Service Line – This irrigation service line connects the pressurized irrigation main line to the sprinkler system.
  13. Curb Stop – On/off valve connected to the non-potable irrigation service that feeds the sprinkler system. Normally found in a tube located in the backyard of a property.