Does My Home Need Backflow Prevention?

When we discuss backflow in plumbing, we are referring to when contaminated or non-drinking water source enters the mains water supply of a property.

To prevent this, a backflow prevention device, or BPD, can be installed. In Coffs Harbour, legislation is in place to ensure every water meter that supplies water to domestic properties must have a backflow prevention device installed.

The council is responsible for providing backflow prevention services to water meters with connections up to 25mm. For medium and high water connections or services that are larger than 25mm, the owner of the property is responsible for the provision, installation, and maintenance of a suitable backflow device.

In the following situations, Coffs Harbour property owners are responsible for backflow prevention:

• Medium/high water connections
• Any water service connection about 25mm in size
• Properties that have below-ground rainwater tanks

In the event of a pipe burst or a damaged pipe, reverse water pressure is created. This reverse pressure can draw dirt or chemicals into the pipe (known as cross-connection).

Without a backflow prevention device, dirt and chemicals are free to enter the mains water supply, which could cause dirty water to be delivered to your property and/or neighbouring properties.

This increases the risk of poisoning or injury when someone uses this contaminated water by accident. This is why it is so important that all properties in Coffs Harbour are fitted with adequate backflow prevention.

At Carrick Plumbing & Roofing, we recommend that our customers ensure they have a backflow prevention device fitted at any point on the property where freshwater and wastewater could potentially intersect with one another.

Most modern properties already have backflow water prevention systems connected at the water meter, but if you are uncertain we recommend having your connection tested.

We also generally recommend having your backflow prevention system serviced periodically. This will ensure that you are getting the best quality freshwater to your home. You should aim to have your backflow prevention system tested every year or so, to ensure you and your family continues to have a safe water supply.

As discussed, backflow prevention is a legal requirement, as it ensures your water supply is safe to use and clean.

Backflow prevention needs to be checked regularly, and if your system was installed decades ago, we recommend arranging an expert local plumber to check both the piping and backflow system.

Is it time to have your backflow prevention system given the once-over? Check out our checklist to help you decide:

Pipe leakage is a clear visible sign that there is something wrong with your plumbing system. Pipes can leak when the backflow system is not functioning correctly, and this could cause problems with your household water flow. Some of the most common symptoms of pipe leakage include:

• Dirt in the pipes
• Negative water pressure
• Thermal expansion

Leaks can be very different – in some instances, you might experience slow dripping. In others, a fast flow from the pipe could result in vastly decreased water pressure. Either of these examples is a clear sign you need to call an emergency plumber. If you are experiencing any of these issues in your home, you should take urgent action and call Carrick Plumbing & Roofing immediately.

Discoloured water

If you notice discolouration in your normal water flow or exterior hose, it is important to arrange for our Coffs Harbour plumbing engineer team to visit to undertake a backflow inspection, as this means contaminated water is somehow making its way into the clean water.

This can make the water dangerous to drink, and you should avoid consuming it until the problem has been rectified by a suitably qualified local plumber in Coffs Harbour

Arrange for backflow prevention system installation or maintenance today

If the replacement cost is simply outside of your budget, see if you can get a professional to repair the issue and make it usable until you have the ability to purchase a new one.

If you have a faulty hot water system and need to identify if your current hot water system is best repaired or replaced, you can call our experts at Carrick Plumbing & Roofing today.

We’re on-hand to deliver all aspects of plumbing maintenance, repairs and installations, and we’ll be happy to discuss any queries you may have regarding your existing water system. For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us today to discuss your needs.