Authorised backflow prevention and testing

What is Backflow prevention?

Backflow is the reversal of the normal direction of water flow in a water supply plumbing system. It occurs when the water delivery main is at a lower pressure than the internal plumbing system (back siphonage). Back siphonage can occur when there is a burst or ruptured water main, or due to excessive demand during fire-fighting operations.

Many appliances and equipment that create differing levels within manufacturing, medical, laboratories, industrial, cooking and associated industries use water that will need direct protection to protect a potable water supply. A backflow prevention device or air gap is used to protect a potable water supply (drinking water) from pollution or contamination.

Stay Compliant

The Technical Regulator stipulates annual testing of all backflow prevention devices. It is the property owner’s responsibility to ensure they are compliant by having your backflow prevention devices risk assessed and checked every year.

After Brown and Son Plumbing have tested your property's backflow valve device, we will diarise the annual testing date for the following year. The Technical Regulator will send a letter and our office will also send a reminder when it is due to be serviced again.

Backflow testing

When a Brown and Son Plumbing authorised Backflow Device Prevention specialist visits your property, they will check the condition of each part of the device. One or more of the valve device parts may require replacement to ensure the device is working properly.

The backflow device must be easily accessible for the backflow technician to test and repair. Some devices have drain ports and it is essential that these are able to drain freely without causing a problem or damaging nearby infrastructure.

Brown and Sons Plumbing’s testing kits are calibrated yearly. All testing, repairs, replacements, modifications and installations are completed as per AS3500.1:2021

Online Lodgement direct to the Technical Regulator

The Backflow test reports completed by our certified and, licenced technicians, will be lodged online directly to the Technical Regulator. Brown and Son Plumbing have customised test reports within our asset management software that will keep a record of the asset test data and the Brown and Son Plumbing office will send you a copy for your records.

Backflow installations

A backflow device needs to be installed in an accessible area with isolating valves, in addition to an inline strainer that reduces the chances of foreign materials entering the device.

There are many considerations when installing a backflow device, a correct risk rating needs to be done, pressure ratings, temperature ratings, the brand of the device and where it is to be installed. Our technician will discuss these considerations with you so you can make an informed decision.

Backflow repairs

Backflow valve seals need to be watertight and able to withstand pressures of up to 1500kpa. Devices also contain spring mechanisms that can lose their tension strength over time, causing the valve to fail.

All backflow devices at some point in their life will require repair work. There are many components and each part needs to be checked, including its correct tolerance tension and general condition. It is also essential that all components are re-assembled using the correct tools and method, to ensure the correct operation of the device after the repair visit.