Backflow Testing: An Essential Task for Keeping Potable Water Clean

Water tanks for storing water come in all sizes, and are found on residential and commercial properties for use in many applications, such as for food preparation, bathing, and as a source of fresh drinking water for people, livestock, and for watering plants. A vital task for keeping potable water safe is to schedule annual backflow testing.

To ensure that potable water is safe from backflow – grey water that flows in a reverse direction – potentially contaminating stored fresh water that is used for drinking, cooking, and bathing, backflow testing should be conducted at least once a year. If water pressure drops unexpectedly, or if you notice any discolouration of water, or your drinking water has a strange taste to it, then it is advised to schedule backflow testing as soon as possible.

Types of Backflow

When backflow fails, potable water can become poisoned and make people very sick. Backflow can occur in two ways, through backsiphonage and backpressure, which are explained here:

Backsiphonage – this occurs when there is low water pressure, which causes water to flow in the opposite direction. This condition can result from a broken watermain or a burst pipe.

Backpressure – if there is a blocked sewer drain, elevated piping systems, a miss directed pump, or any other situation that forces water backwards, fresh potable water can become contaminated.

Backflow testing and prevention is vital for keep potable water clean, but there are still many properties that still do not have proper backflow prevention devices installed. Although, there are mandatory backflow prevention devices near the water meter at the boundary of properties. However, these too can fail to function and will need to be tested and repaired.

Residential, commercial, and industrial properties all have backflow prevention devices of different types. Property owners need to make sure that they have the correct backflow prevention devices and that these are functioning properly.

Complying with Regulations Regarding Backflow Preventers

According to the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, there are strict policies to follow to ensure the protection and maintenance of home water systems, by using backflow preventers. Property owners must comply with regulations that stipulate the proper fitting of backflow preventers by accredited plumbers, such as G. Brand & Sons Plumbers in Melbourne.

At G. Brand & Sons Plumbers, we are licensed and accredited plumbers that specialise in backflow testing, and the installation, maintenance and repair of backflow preventers that meet and exceed all regulation requirements set down by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

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