Backflow Testing Springvale

What backflow is

Backflow happens when water flows the wrong way, from a property back into the drinking water supply. It can be caused by a drop in mains pressure, such as a burst main, or higher pressure on the property side. If the water on the property is contaminated with chemicals, fertiliser or waste, that contamination can reach the public supply.

Who needs a backflow device

Properties with a risk of contamination must have a backflow prevention device suited to the hazard level. That includes restaurants, cafes and food manufacturers, car washes, medical and dental clinics, hairdressers, factories, schools, properties with fire sprinkler or hydrant systems, and homes with irrigation systems that inject chemicals or rainwater tanks connected to the house.

Annual testing

Testable devices must be tested at least once a year by a licensed tester, with results reported to the water corporation. We test reduced pressure zone devices, double check valves and other testable devices, clean and repair them if they fail, retest, and lodge the report.

Installation

We assess the hazard on your property, recommend the right type of device, install it at the boundary or at individual hazards, and commission and register it.

Repairs

Devices fail tests when springs, seals or check valves wear or are fouled by debris. We carry common repair kits and can usually repair and retest in the same visit.

Reminders

We keep a record of your device and can remind you when the next test is due, so you are not chasing it at the last minute.

Homes

Most homes do not need a testable device, but some do, such as those with tanks connected to household plumbing or certain irrigation setups. We check what is connected and advise.

Fire services

Buildings with fire sprinklers or hydrants need backflow protection to stop stagnant water in the fire system flowing back into the mains. These devices are usually large and need annual testing alongside the fire services maintenance schedule.

Failed tests

If a device fails, the water corporation expects it to be repaired and retested promptly. We carry repair kits for common devices so most are fixed and retested the same day.

Keeping records

After every test, we lodge the report with the water corporation and give you a copy for your compliance file. Landlords and property managers can ask for reports to be sent directly to them.

Device location and access

Boundary devices are often near the meter at the front of the property, inside a cage or cover. Keep them accessible and protected from vehicles. Damaged or buried devices can fail and are harder to test.

Schools and community buildings

Schools, kindergartens and community halls often have several devices, including on fire services and irrigation. We test them all in one visit.

Springvale ground and pipes

Springvale sits on a mix of sandy loam and heavier clay, and much of the suburb was built in the 1950s and 1960s with earthenware sewer pipes and galvanised or early copper water pipe. Clay joints shift over time and let roots in, rusting galvanised pipe slowly narrows and leaks, and drains under subdivided blocks are often shared between homes. We use drain cameras, locators and pressure tests to see exactly what is going on before anyone digs.

From your call to the finished job