BACKFLOW Prevention Valve
Aussie BACKFLOW is Melbourne’s most trusted name when it comes to expert backflow prevention valve testing, installation, servicing and repairs for all types of backflow prevention devices.
Why Choose Aussie BACKFLOW
Aussie BACKFLOW Testing is Melbourne’s most trusted and professional backflow testing service. If your business or home in Melbourne requires backflow prevention then we are able to help you meet all your backflow prevention obligations.
As certified backlfow plumbers we can test, repair and install any backflow prevention system for commercial and domestic customers.
To speak to an expert give us a call and we’ll be happy to discuss your needs or arrange a free quote and inspection.
Fixed Price Testing Solutions.
All our Work is Fully Guaranteed.
100% Compliance with your Local Water utility.
Free Annual Reminders and Inspections.
What is a Backflow Prevention Valve
A backflow prevention valve is a device to prevent the reverse flow of water from a potentially contaminated source, into the water corporation’s potable water supply. Potable water is the water that flows out of your taps, including your kitchen and bathroom sinks, showers and bathtubs.
Why Your Backflow Prevention Valve Needs To Be Tested
Backflow can pose a public health risk if pollutants or contaminants such as chemicals enter the drinking water supply from your property.
A backflow prevention device allows water to enter the property through the water meter, and prevents water from flowing back into the water supply network.
All water service connections need to be fitted with an appropriate containment backflow prevention valve to protect the water supply network and our customers.
As a result you are legally required to have your backflow prevention device tested annually.
The property owner is responsible for the maintenance and testing of the device as detailed in the Plumbing Code of Australia and the Water (Estimation, Supply and Sewerage) Regulations 2014 by a suitably qualified plumber registered and/or licensed in backflow prevention.
Backflow Prevention Valve
Different Types of Backflow Prevention Valves
A backflow prevention valve tends to work using combinations of valves to stop water flowing backward.
Commercial Backflow Prevention Valve
There are different types of backflow prevention devices, including:
- Reduced pressure zone
- Double check
- Single check
- Dual check.
Backflow prevention valves can generally be categorised in two ways: testable and not testable. Reduced pressure zone, double check, and some single check valves are testable devices.
The level of hazard will determine what backflow prevention device needs to be installed
The following are examples of different commercial and residential hazard ratings.
(Source: Tables F1, F2 and F3 of AS/NZS 3500.1)
High Hazard
- Abattoirs and fish processing plants
- Car and plant washing facilities
- Chemical plants, factories or suppliers
- Commercial laundry
- Funeral parlours
- Hospitals
- Metal finishing plants
Sewage pumping and treatment facilities
Medium Hazard
- Commercial and public swimming pools
- Drink dispensers with carbonators
- Food and beverage processing plant
- Irrigation systems without chemicals
- Marinas
- Premises with grey water reuse systems
- Caravan parks
Low Hazard
- Hair salons basins or troughs
- In-line water softeners and water filtration equipment
- Photographic processing machines
Backflow Prevention Valve
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to fit a backflow prevention device to my premises?
Yes. Only if the relevant water corporation for your area has sent written notice to the owner of a serviced property requesting the owner to arrange for a plumber to install a backflow prevention device to the private water supply works or a private fire service.
What is the responsibility of the water corporation?
The relevant water corporation must, in the written notice, give directions to the owner of the serviced property in relation to:
- The type of device to be installed.
- Installation of that device.
- An the time for compliance with the notice, which must be at least 10 days after the date of the notice.
Are there consequences for non compliance?
Generally Yes. The owner of the serviced property must comply with the notice and must notify the relevant water corporation in writing of compliance with the notice within 5 business days after complying with the notice. Otherwise penalties and fines may apply.
What are the obligations of the property owner?
- The owner of a serviced property must take all reasonable steps to maintain and keep in good working order all pipes and fittings of a private fire service, including all stop valves after the water main, but excluding any of the relevant water corporation’s water meters.
- If a backflow prevention device is installation the owner must ensure the system is services and tested annually.