What is Backflow Testing?

Backflow testing is a crucial safety measure designed to protect your drinking water supply from contamination. It ensures that the backflow prevention device installed on your property is working effectively, preventing contaminated water from flowing backwards into the clean water system.

Only a qualified and accredited backflow prevention plumber can legally test, inspect, and commission your backflow device. They’ll handle the paperwork too, submitting the completed test report to Sydney Water on your behalf, ensuring you’re compliant with regulations.

Backflow testing protects your health, property, and peace of mind. Here’s why:

• Safeguarding Your Drinking Water: Backflow testing ensures your water supply remains clean and safe. By preventing contaminated water from entering your system, it safeguards your family and community from potential health risks.
• Preventing Health Risks: Contaminated water can contain harmful substances like bacteria, chemicals, or debris, posing serious health risks. Backflow testing helps minimise this risk, protecting you and your loved ones.
• Protecting Your Property: Contaminated water can cause significant damage to your plumbing system and property, leading to expensive repairs. Backflow testing helps prevent this by ensuring your backflow prevention device is working properly.
• Avoiding Fines: Local regulations often require regular backflow testing to ensure compliance. Failing to comply can result in hefty fines and legal penalties.

Backflow testing is not just a technical requirement; it’s a proactive step towards safeguarding your well-being, property, and financial security.

A backflow device acts as a safety guard for your clean water supply, preventing contaminated water from flowing backward into the mains water system. Imagine your clean water supply as a river flowing in one direction. Backflow is like a back current trying to flow upstream, potentially carrying contaminants from sewer lines, irrigation systems, or industrial processes.

A backflow device acts as a barrier, stopping that backflow and keeping your water clean. These devices can include:

• One-Way Valves: These valves allow water to flow in only one direction, preventing backflow.
• Air Gaps: A physical separation between the clean water system and a potential source of contamination, like a drain or a tank.
• Break Tanks: A storage tank that creates a pressure difference, preventing backflow.

Backflow devices are essential for various properties and situations, including construction sites, emergency sprinkler or fire service systems, swimming pools, manufacturing facilities, and restaurants with grease traps. Backflow prevention is crucial for ensuring the safety of our water supply and protecting our health and our homes.

The frequency of backflow testing depends on the hazard rating of your property, which is determined by a qualified plumber.

• High or Medium Hazard Properties: Properties with a higher risk of contamination, such as industrial facilities, water treatment plants, or restaurants, generally require annual backflow testing.
• Low Hazard Properties: These properties, often with smaller water meters or less complex plumbing systems, may have different testing requirements, but a general guideline is that backflow devices should be tested at least once every two years.

However, it’s crucial to consult with your local water authority or a certified plumber to determine the specific testing frequency for your property. They can assess your situation and ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.