BACKFLOW TESTING PERTH
What Causes Backflow?
Backflow can occur when there is a disruption in the normal flow of water in your plumbing system. Under typical circumstances, water flows in one direction, from the potable water supply through fixtures like faucets and showers, and then down the drain to the sewer system. This flow is maintained by adequate water pressure, ensuring that you can safely drink water from your tap.
However, if the pressure in the water main drops below the pressure in your plumbing supply, backflow can happen. This causes the water flow to reverse direction, potentially allowing waste, pollutants, and other hazardous materials to enter your water supply. This can pose a serious health risk. Pressure changes in the water main can occur due to various reasons such as burst pipes or high demand during activities like during firefighting operations.
Ensure that your commercial property’s backflow prevention devices are functioning properly, and gain peace of mind with professional backflow testing Perth performed by our experienced plumbers at PBR Plumbing.
BACKFLOW TESTING PERTHBackflow Prevention Perth
Backflow Prevention Perth
Frequently Asked Questions
It is mandatory for backflow prevention devices to be tested annually by a certified and licensed plumber, as per the requirements of the Water Corporation. After conducting the annual valve testing, our certified plumbers will provide you with a certification along with a copy for your records. This certification serves as evidence of compliance, helping you avoid receiving non-compliant notices or fines.
Signs of a backflow leak can vary depending on the specific circumstances and location of the leak. However, some potential signs of a backflow leak may include:
- Discoloured water: If you notice a change in the colour of your tap water, such as it becoming brown, yellow, or murky, it could be a sign of a backflow leak. Backflow can cause contaminants or pollutants to enter the water supply, leading to discolouration.
- Unusual tastes or odours in water: Backflow can also cause changes in the taste or odour of your tap water. If you detect a strange or unpleasant taste or odour in your water that wasn't present before, it could be indicative of a backflow leak.
- Reduced water pressure: Backflow can disrupt the normal flow of water in your plumbing system, leading to reduced water pressure in your faucets or fixtures. If you notice a sudden drop in water pressure without any apparent reason, it could be a sign of backflow.
- Increased water bills: Backflow leaks can cause water to be wasted or used inefficiently, leading to increased water bills. If you notice a significant and unexplained increase in your water bills, it could be a sign of a backflow leak.
A physical backflow prevention device is a mechanical or physical barrier installed in a plumbing system to prevent the reverse flow of water and contaminants from entering the potable water supply. These devices are designed to protect the integrity of the water supply by ensuring that water flows in one direction, from the water source to the intended point of use, and prevent any backflow that could contaminate the potable water.
- New construction
- Additions/redevelopments of existing facilities
- Changes to water service
- Multiple buildings; residential or commercial
- Fire service applications, including new installations with medium-rated devices, require backflow prevention. Existing fire services may need modification to include backflow prevention devices
- Ornamental or recreational bodies of water, such as swimming pools, fish ponds, or fountains, may require backflow prevention devices depending on the level of backflow risk identified during investigation
The Water Services Act 2012 and Water Services Regulations 2013 require the installation of backflow prevention devices to protect the public from health risks and potential incidents of backflow. Property owners may receive notice to install these devices at plumbing connections within their property boundary. Failure to comply may result in fines of up to $5,000, plus $500 per day, or water services being restricted or disconnected.
What are the different types of backflow devices?
Air Gap
- Physical separation between the water supply and the potential source of contamination
- Open vertical space that prevents any direct connection between the water supply and the plumbing system
- Ensures water cannot flow back into the potable water supply Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker
- Inexpensive option
- Consists of an inlet valve, check seat, and air inlet port
- Protects against backsiphonage caused by negative pressure in the pipes
- Does not protect against back pressure Pressure Vacuum Breaker
- Contains internally loaded check and air inlet valves
- Can be tested
- Protects against backsiphonage but not back pressure Double Check Valve
- Features two independent resilient seat-check valves
- Located between two shut-off valves
- Includes test cocks and stop valves for testing Reduced Pressure Zone Device
- Made up of an automatic differential-pressure valve between two or more independent resilient seat-check valves
- Equipped with shut-off valves
- Test cocks provided for checking Hose Bibb Vacuum Breaker
- Designed to prevent backsiphonage on faucets
- Prone to back pressure if the hose outlet is higher than the device
The type of backflow prevention device required for your property depends on the backflow risk associated with how your land is used.
- Low Risk: There are connection problems to the drinking water supply that may be frustrating, but they do not pose a risk to health or cause injury.
- Medium Risk: Water connection problems could potentially endanger health.
- High Risk: Water connection problems could result in serious consequences, including death.
Backflow prevention devices can only be installed by a licensed plumber. The device must be installed on the property owner's side of the water connection and placed in an accessible location, not underground or in a pit or chamber. After installation, the plumber will register the device.
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