What is Backflow?

Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow from a potential contamination source to a clean or potable water supply. For backflow to occur, there must be a physical connection, or cross-connection, between the water supply and any delivered water or contaminant.

A backflow prevention device protects the water supply. Commercial properties require annual backflow testing by law.

Get in touch to book your annual test and certification now.

How does Backflow occur?

When the water supply from Watercare reaches your home, it must flow in one direction. Unfortunately, pressure changes and other influences can cause the water to travel in the wrong direction through the connection pipe.

Backflow occurs due to pressure differentials in the pipework. In the above scenario, negative pressure in the pipework/hose will ‘syphon’ the bucket contents. Backflow can also arise from appliances (dishwashers, washing machines), pools, and water storage tanks.

Unclean water backflow can potentially contaminate the public drinking supply with various contaminants like:

• Human waste

• Chemicals

• Fats/Oils

• Solvents

Why is it important for your home or business?

There are three different risk profiles based on the type of potential backflow from each site. High, Medium and Low risk:

• High-risk sites are properties that use or produce products of a toxic or bacterial nature that may cause death or serious illness if leaked into the main water supply.

• Medium-risk sites can endanger health if backflow contamination occurs.

• Low-risk sites are properties that could cause a nuisance by colour, odour, or taste but do not endanger health.

Backflow prevention maintains the water supply’s quality– vital to public safety. If you’re unsure what your business requires or need certification for your residential property, we can help. Just pick up the phone and call us to find out more on backflow testing, prevention, and inspections.

Prevention devices may be testable or non-testable. Their use in a particular situation depends on the degree of hazard. Non-testable devices, for example, may only be used on low-hazard-rated systems.

A testable device requires testing upon installation and at regular intervals to the Acceptable Solution G12/AS1: 3.7 Testing standards. You should check your non-testable devices every two years maximum.