Backflow Prevention

What is Backflow?

Backflow occurs because a condition exists in a water supply system that will cause back-siphonage. Back-siphonage can occur on a property through a vacuum created in the water supply system. Examples of back-siphonage would be a pipeline breakage, undersized pipework or high withdrawal rates.

Back-pressure can occur within properties when high pressure is generated downstream by pumps, thermal expansion or elevation. An example of this can be when there is a burst pipe or the fire department is drawing from the main at a high rate.

Backflow prevention starts by isolating a possible contamination source from the town mains or storage tanks from the tap or appliance. This can be achieved through air gaps or backflow prevention devices.

Examples of potential sources of contamination:

• Fire Hose Reels (FHRs)
• Irrigation systems
• Swimming pools
• Vehicle maintenance pits
• Ornamental ponds
• Air conditioning towers
• Vehicle/bin washing bays
• Chemical injection areas

Examples of properties requiring backflow prevention:

What is the safeguard to prevent a backflow occurrence?

A correctly selected backflow prevention device (one way valve) will eliminate any risk of contamination of your water supply. Salmon Plumbing can provide advice on the different options available to you – contact us for a quote.

Backflow devices are either testable or non-testable types with the selection dependant what the code calls up for an areas hazard rating.

Application & registration of backflow prevention devices

Local Council is required to keep a register as per the following:

• Standard Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2003 Section 38 – Testable backflow prevention devices,
• State Government Standard Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2003.

A local government, or an authorised entity, must maintain a register of the testable backflow prevention devices.

An owner of an installed testable backflow prevention device must

• register the device with the local government or entity; and
• have the device inspected or tested by a person who is licensed to do the work, every 12-months.

The plumber who tests a backflow prevention device, must within ten business days from inspection, provide written test results to Council.

A list of backflow valves that we certify and service

Services we provide

We service customers in these and other industries