Backflow Testing Brisbane

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What Is Backflow?

Backflow happens when water flows the wrong way in your pipes.

This can happen if there’s a big drop in water pressure, like when a water main breaks or during a fire when lots of water is being used. That’s called back siphonage.

It can also happen if something like a water pump pushes water into your pipes harder than the water from the street. That’s called back pressure.

If dirty water (like from a garden hose left in a bucket) gets connected to your clean water pipes, and the pressure changes, that dirty water can get sucked into your drinking water, which can make it unsafe.

This image illustrates back siphoning, a form of backflow.
Large blue commercial backflow prevention device installed outdoors

What Is A Backflow Prevention Device?

A backflow prevention device is used to protect clean drinking water from contamination caused by backflow.

In plumbing systems, water is normally kept at high pressure to flow properly through taps, showers, and other fixtures. This device ensures that water only flows in one direction, preventing any polluted water from entering the clean supply.

Types Of Backflow Prevention Devices

Backflow prevention devices are essential for protecting drinking water from contamination caused by reverse water flow. Here are the main types commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings:

  • Air Gap: An air gap is a non-mechanical solution that creates a physical space between the water outlet and the highest potential water level in a fixture or container. Commonly found in sinks and bathtubs, it effectively prevents back-siphonage in situations where mechanical devices are not practical.
  • Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB): A simple, non-mechanical device that prevents back-siphonage by allowing air into the system when water pressure drops. AVBs are typically used in low-risk applications such as garden irrigation systems.
  • Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB): A mechanical device that includes a check valve and air inlet valve to prevent back-siphonage. Commonly installed in irrigation systems, PVBs provide a higher level of protection than AVBs and must be mounted at least 30cm above the highest downstream outlet.
  • Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA): This device features two check valves arranged in series and is designed to prevent both back-siphonage and backpressure. DCVAs are suitable for low to medium hazard situations, such as in residential and commercial plumbing systems.
  • Reduced Pressure Zone Device (RPZ): Offering the highest level of protection, RPZs include two independent check valves and a pressure relief valve. These devices are used in high-risk environments like commercial kitchens, hospitals, and industrial facilities where contamination risks are significant.
RPZD backflow Valve
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Do You Need A Backflow Prevention Device?

Some places need backflow prevention devices because they could make the main water supply dirty if something goes wrong. These places include:

  • Air conditioning towers
  • Restaurants
  • Swimming pools
  • Funeral homes
  • Car wash businesses
  • Laundromats and dry cleaners
  • Shops
  • Factories and places that make chemicals
  • Boilers and steam pipes
  • Hotels
  • Irrigation systems (for watering gardens or crops)
  • Fire hose reels or hydrants
  • Underground rainwater tanks

What Is A TMV?

A Thermostatic Mixing Valve (TMV) is a plumbing device designed to regulate water temperature at taps and showerheads. Its main function is to deliver water at a consistent, safe temperature, helping to prevent scalding and ensure user comfort.

To protect users from injury, especially in settings like homes, hospitals, and care facilities, TMVs are set to ensure water does not exceed 45°C.

bathroom showing a wall-mounted thermostatic mixing valve
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About Crew Plumbing

At Crew Plumbing, we are committed to ensuring the safety and compliance of your backflow prevention systems, protecting the potable water supply of Brisbane.

We provide professional testing and maintenance of backflow prevention devices for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Whether you require annual testing or ongoing support, our experienced team ensures your devices function correctly and meet all regulatory standards.

We pride ourselves on delivering reliable service and expert advice, ensuring your system remains compliant and fully operational within required timeframes.

Contact us today for a quote or to schedule your backflow prevention test, and enjoy the confidence of knowing your water supply is safe and protected.

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Do I Need To Do Backflow And/Or TMV Testing?

Your Backflow Device and TMV Valve should be checked at least once a year to make sure they’re working properly.

Only someone with the right license is allowed to test or inspect these devices. At Crew Plumbing, our team is fully trained and licensed to install and test Backflow Devices and TMVs. By law, if you have a testable backflow device, you must also register it with your local City Council.

Crew Plumbing offers a full service that includes checking, testing, and fixing these devices. TMVs also need new parts like the thermostat and o-rings every 5 years, plus a check-up at least once a year.

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Close-up view of backflow preventers beside PIV and Pillar fire hydrant at a street corner.

What Factors Determine The Need For Backflow Testing?

The need for backflow testing depends on a few things, like where your property is, what local rules apply, and the kind of backflow prevention device you have. Different areas in Brisbane may have their own rules, so it’s important for property owners to know what’s required.

The type of device you have also affects how often it needs to be tested. For example:

  • RPZ (Reduced Pressure Zone) Device: This is used in places with a high risk of water getting dirty. Because it’s so important, it usually needs to be tested every year or as often as local rules say
  • DCVA (Double Check Valve Assembly): This is used in lower-risk places. It may not need testing as often as an RPZ, but it still needs regular checks to make sure it’s working properly.

What Are Your Responsibilities:

If you own a backflow prevention device in Queensland, there are some important things you need to do to help keep the city’s drinking water safe.

1.
Register

Register your device with your local council. This is required by law (Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018).

2.
Test It

Get it tested every year by a licensed plumber, like our team at Crew Plumbing. Your council will send you reminders and a yearly fee notice so you don’t forget. You could be fined if your device isn’t tested or registered on time.

3.
Keep Records

Keep testing records. We can help with this, including sending the official test report (Form 9) to your local council. We’ll also remind you when your next test is due.

The council can fine you if you don’t follow these rules. Contact us to stay on track, avoid penalties, and help protect the community’s clean water supply.

Why Is Backflow Testing Important?

A backflow prevention device is a special valve that stops dirty or polluted water from getting into the clean drinking water supply.

Sometimes, if there’s a big drop in water pressure, like when a pipe bursts, a fire hydrant is used, or a pump is running, water can start to flow the wrong way. If your backflow device isn’t working, that dirty water could go back into the main water supply and make it unsafe to drink.

That’s why it’s super important to have your backflow device tested every year.

It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it can be a big problem. So it’s something you shouldn’t skip!

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icon of a backflow prevention valve
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I’m Not Sure When My TMV/Backflow Test Is Due

If you don’t remember the last time your TMV or Backflow device was tested, it’s a good idea to book a test now.

Crew Plumbing’s licensed team can come out and do the testing for you. We’ll also send you a reminder every 12 months, so you don’t forget to get it checked next time.

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Can I Get The Backflow Device Removed So I Don’t Have To Do Testing Every Year?

Backflow prevention devices are put in when there’s a chance that dirty water could get into the clean water supply.

Talk to one of our plumbers, they can check if you still need the device. If there’s still a risk, the device has to stay and be working properly.

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Looking for an expert backflow plumber in Brisbane?

Backflow testing might sound tricky, but we’re here to handle it for you. We’ll make sure everything is up to code, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Our Services In Brisbane

We offer lots of backflow testing services, including:

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Installing backflow devices and valves

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Yearly check-ups and writing a report

Queensland Coat of Arms

Sending the report to your local City Council for you

Residential backflow prevention device

Testing and fixing all types of backflow valves from brands like Wilkins, Febco, Watts, Tyco, and more

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Repairing different kinds of backflow valves and devices

Frequently Asked Quesions

Backflow testing is when a plumber checks to make sure your backflow prevention device is working properly. It helps keep dirty or unsafe water from getting into the clean drinking water supply.
In Brisbane, it’s the property owner’s job to get these devices tested regularly to follow the rules and keep water safe.
Some systems are more likely to have backflow problems, so testing is extra important for things like:
Irrigation systems: These connect to the water supply and could let in things like fertiliser or pesticides if not protected.
Fire sprinkler system: The water in these can sit for a long time and become dirty. If it flows backwards, it could mix with clean water.
Commercial equipment: Things like drink machines, big dishwashers, or machines that use water can cause backflow and let in chemicals or germs if not tested and protected properly.

A backflow prevention device is a safety tool used in plumbing to stop dirty water from flowing back into the clean drinking water supply. It helps keep our water safe and clean for everyone.

You can find out where your backflow device is by checking the reminder letter your Council sends each year. When the device was first registered, the location was written down and it’s usually included in those reminder notices.

If you don’t look after your sewage system, it can hurt you, other people, and the environment. You might also get a fine. You can learn more about the rules and penalties on the Queensland Government website.

Backflow testing makes sure the backflow prevention device is working properly, so dirty water doesn’t mix with clean drinking water. It helps keep the water safe for everyone to use.

Backflow testing is important because it helps keep our drinking water clean and safe. It checks that special plumbing devices, called backflow prevention devices, are working properly. These devices stop dirty water from flowing backward into the clean water supply.
If these devices don’t work, things like chemicals, germs, or other harmful stuff could get into the water we use every day. That could make people sick.
Testing them regularly makes sure they’re doing their job and protecting everyone’s health. It also helps property owners follow the rules, since many councils require testing to avoid fines and keep everything up to standard.

Water safety means keeping our drinking water clean and free from anything that could make people sick.
Backflow testing helps with this by making sure backflow prevention devices are working the right way. These devices stop dirty water from getting into the clean water supply.
If they aren’t tested and stop working, dirty water can flow backwards and bring in germs or chemicals that could cause serious health problems.

Your backflow prevention device helps keep your water clean, so it’s important to know when it might need to be replaced. Here are some signs to watch out for:
Low water pressure: If your water isn’t coming out as strong as usual, there might be a problem inside the device.
Leaks or wet spots: If you see water leaking or moisture around the device, it could mean it’s not sealing properly anymore.
Strange noises or shaking: If the device is making weird sounds or vibrations, it might be wearing out and not working like it should.
Rust or corrosion: If the device looks rusty or has corrosion on it, it could be getting weak and might not stop backflow like it’s supposed to.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to get it checked or replaced to keep your water safe.

Backflow prevention devices help keep dirty water from getting into clean drinking water. Here are the main types, explained simply:
Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB): This is a basic device that lets air into the pipes if water pressure drops. It stops water from flowing the wrong way. It’s usually used in garden sprinkler systems and other low-risk places.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB): This device has parts inside that help stop backflow. It’s stronger than an AVB and is also used for things like irrigation systems. It has to be installed a bit higher than the other pipes it connects to.
Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA): This device has two valves inside that stop water from going backward. It’s good for homes and businesses where the risk is not too high.
Reduced Pressure Zone Device (RPZ): This is one of the strongest types of backflow protection. It has extra safety features and is used in places like hospitals, restaurants, and factories where water contamination would be really dangerous.
Air Gap: This isn’t a device but a space between where water comes out and where it could collect. For example, your kitchen sink faucet has an air gap above the sink bowl. It stops water from being sucked back into the pipes.
Each type of device is used depending on how big the risk of contamination is.

At Crew Plumbing, we follow a few simple steps to test your backflow prevention device:
Step 1: Check it out
We look at the device to see if there are any obvious problems.
Step 2: Test it
We use special tools to make sure the device is working properly in different situations.
Step 3: Write a report
After the test, we give you a report that explains how the device is doing and if it needs any repairs.
Step 4: Certificate
If everything is working right, we give you a certificate to show that your device passed the test and follows Brisbane’s rules.

Backflow testing helps keep your drinking water safe by checking if the backflow prevention device is working properly. Here are some common problems that might be found:
Drop in water pressure: If the water pressure goes down too much, dirty water can get pulled into the clean water supply. This can happen if the backflow device isn’t working right.
Rust or damage: Over time, parts inside the device can get rusty or worn out, especially if they’ve been exposed to chemicals or rough weather. This can stop the device from doing its job.
Blocked with dirt or debris: Dirt or other stuff can get stuck in the device and stop the valves from sealing properly. This can let dirty water in.
Not installed or looked after correctly: If the device wasn’t put in the right way or hasn’t been checked regularly, it might not work like it should. Things like being in the wrong spot or not being cleaned or fixed on time can cause problems.
Regular testing helps find these issues early, so they can be fixed before they become a big problem.

Backflow prevention devices need to be tested once a year to make sure they’re working properly. In Queensland, both the council and state rules say this has to be done every 12 months to help keep our water safe from contamination.
The test must be done by a licensed plumber who’s trained to check backflow devices. After the test, a report is sent to the council to prove the device passed and is safe to use.

Key Service Areas

Coopers Plains Rocklea Carindale Carina Holland Park Mansfield Mount Gravatt

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