Why should wastewater pumps not have water seal connections directly to the city water supply?

Wastewater pumps should not have water seal connections directly to the city water supply primarily because of the risk that wastewater may be drawn back into the clean water system. This phenomenon, known as backflow, occurs when there is a negative pressure in the wastewater system that creates a vacuum effect, potentially allowing contaminated water to flow backwards and pollute the drinking water supply. This could pose serious health risks and violate public health regulations.

Preventing such cross-connections is critical to safeguarding public water supplies, ensuring that drinking water remains uncontaminated and safe for public use. To mitigate this risk, backflow prevention devices are often required in wastewater management systems to ensure there is no direct or indirect path for wastewater to enter the potable water supply.