What is Backflow Testing and Prevention?

Backflow testing ensures that contaminated water doesn’t flow back into your clean water supply. Backflow prevention is a vital part of plumbing systems.

Whether you’re a home or business owner, understanding backflow prevention and testing will keep your water system safe and compliant.

What is Backflow Prevention?

Backflow prevention is the installation of devices in your plumbing system that stop the reverse flow of water. When backflow happens, dirty water, chemicals or even sewage can flow back, contaminating your potable (clean) water supply.

To prevent backflow, backflow preventers are installed at strategic points in your plumbing system to ensure contaminated water doesn’t get into the water you drink, bathe with or cook with.

Backflow prevention devices are used in irrigation systems, fire sprinklers and any plumbing system where there’s a risk of water contamination.

Why Is Backflow Prevention Important?

Backflow prevention is important to keep you and others safe by keeping your water supply safe. If backflow happens, dangerous substances like bacteria, chemicals or waste materials can mix with your drinking water and be a serious health risk.

Not only is backflow a public health risk, but it’s also a plumbing code violation.

In many areas, including Melbourne, plumbing systems must have backflow prevention devices installed, and these devices must be tested regularly to comply with health regulations.

When Is Backflow Prevention Required?

Backflow prevention is required where the risk of contamination is higher. Some common scenarios where backflow prevention is required are:

1. Irrigation Systems – If your irrigation system uses the same water supply as your home or business, backflow prevention is essential. Fertilisers, pesticides and other chemicals can contaminate the water if backflow happens and make the water unsafe to drink.
2. Fire Sprinkler Systems – Fire sprinkler systems use a mix of water and chemicals. If these chemicals are not contained properly, they can flow back into your water supply and contaminate it.
3. Swimming Pools and Spas – Pools or spas/hot tubs connected to your water supply can introduce contaminants like chlorine or bacteria into your drinking water if backflow happens.
4. Commercial Plumbing Systems – Businesses, especially in food preparation, healthcare or manufacturing, use water for processes that can introduce contaminants. Backflow prevention is required to prevent these substances from mixing with potable water.

What is Backflow Testing?

Backflow testing is the process of checking if your backflow prevention devices are working correctly.

Backflow testing is done by a licensed plumber who will inspect the device, check the pressure levels and confirm that the device is preventing any reverse flow of water.

Testing is important because, over time, devices can fail, get damaged or wear out and allow backflow to occur.

In many areas, backflow testing is a legal requirement. Local councils and water authorities require backflow devices to be tested regularly to ensure they are working correctly.

Typically, testing must be done every 12 to 24 months, depending on the regulations in your area.

Current South East Water Backflow Testing Requirements

• Testable Devices: Required on all medium and high-risk properties; must be installed and registered.
• Annual Testing: Must be tested every 12 months by a licensed plumber with backflow prevention endorsement.
• Test Report Submission: Property owners must submit the backflow test report to South East Water within 20 business days.
• Device Failure: If the device fails, it must be repaired or replaced by the property owner.
• Regulatory Compliance: Non-compliance may result in intervention by South East Water and penalties for failure to maintain or test the device.

Read South East Water’s full backflow testing policy

Types of Backflow Prevention Devices

Several types of backflow prevention devices are available depending on your system’s needs. Some of the most common devices are:

• Double Check Valve (DCV): A commonly used backflow preventer for residential properties and irrigation systems. It works by using two check valves to prevent backflow.
• Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Valve: Often used in commercial properties or high-risk applications, RPZ valves maintain a constant pressure differential to ensure water flows only in one direction.
• Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB): Typically used in irrigation systems, PVBs prevent backflow by using a vacuum breaker to relieve pressure and stop contaminants from flowing back.

When Should You Have Backflow Testing Done?

Backflow testing should be done regularly to ensure your backflow prevention devices are working correctly. You should schedule a backflow test if:

• Your backflow prevention device is due for its regular check (usually every 12 to 24 months).
• Your local council or water authority requires testing to maintain compliance.
• You notice any issues with water pressure or flow in your system, such as water running slowly or fluctuations in water pressure.
• You’ve had plumbing work done or noticed any changes in your water quality.

What Should You Do If You Need Backflow Prevention or Testing?

If you think your property may need backflow prevention or testing, here’s what you should do:

1. Get inspected: A licensed plumber will assess your system to see if backflow prevention is required and if your current system is working correctly.
2. Install the Right Device: If you need backflow prevention, make sure a certified plumber installs the correct device for your property. This will meet local plumbing codes and water authority regulations.
3. Test Regularly: Once installed, backflow prevention devices need to be tested regularly to ensure they are working. A licensed plumber will do this testing and provide a certificate of compliance if required.
4. Stay Compliant: Make sure you follow local regulations and maintain your backflow prevention system. Failure to do so can result in contamination of the water supply or fines for non-compliance.

Need Backflow Testing?

Backflow prevention and testing are critical to protecting your water supply from contamination, and Dmack Plumbing will ensure your system is fully compliant and working correctly. Our plumbers specialise in backflow prevention installation and testing services to ensure compliance with local regulations. If you’re unsure whether your property requires backflow prevention or testing, contact Dmack Plumbing today. We’ll provide the professional service you need to protect your water supply and avoid fines. Call now for all your backflow prevention needs!

If you need Backflow Testing for your home or business, DMACK Plumbing & Gas is here to help. Call us on 0407 851 244, and we’ll fix your problem, 24/7.