Planning for backflow prevention and fixing backflow issues is an important part of RPG Plumbing and Gas Services. Backflow occurs when water flows in the opposite direction, potentially contaminating your potable water with harmful substances.
When it comes to ensuring the safety and cleanliness of your water supply, backflow prevention is crucial. Backflow prevention devices are essential to protect public health by stopping infiltration of contaminated water into buildings and the broader community water supply system.
Preventing backflow is therefore crucial for maintaining water quality and safety for all users. If you are having issues with backflow, please contact us.
Need help with backflow prevention?
In this blog, we will cover what backflow is, how to prevent it, what to do if you encounter a backflow situation.
What is Backflow?
Backflow is the undesirable reversal of the flow of water from its intended direction in a plumbing system. It can occur due to two main reasons:
Backpressure: This happens when the pressure in the system downstream exceeds the pressure in the supply line.
Back siphonage: This occurs when there is a negative pressure in the supply line, causing water to be siphoned back into the potable water system. Back siphonage can be caused by events such as a water main break or the sudden draw of water during firefighting.
Backflow prevention methods
RPG Plumbing and Gas uses various methods to prevent backflow and ensure the safety of your water supply.
Backflow prevention devices
Backflow prevention devices are mechanical devices installed in the plumbing system to prevent backflow. There are several different types that may be used depending on the circumstance. We can advise and specificy the correct backflow prevention devise to suit any circumstance.
Regular Maintenance and Testing
Routine inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices are essential to ensure they are functioning correctly. RPG Plumbing and Gas offers reliable maintenance services to keep your system in optimum condition.
What to Do if You Encounter a Backflow Situation?
If you suspect a backflow issue, it’s crucial to take immediate action to prevent contamination of your water supply. Here’s what you can do:
Turn Off the Water Supply: Immediately shut off the main water supply to prevent further contamination.
Check for Visible Signs: Look for signs of backflow, such as discoloured or foul-smelling water, and any unusual changes in water pressure.
Isolate Contaminated Fixtures: Isolate any fixtures or appliances that may be affected by backflow to contain the issue.
When to Engage RPG Plumbing and Gas
While some minor backflow issues can be addressed temporarily by the homeowner, it is essential to engage a professional plumber to ensure a thorough and lasting solution. RPG Plumbing and Gas offers expert services to resolve backflow issues effectively. Here’s how we can help:
Pressure Rodding: This method involves using high-pressure water jets to clear blockages and restore proper flow, preventing backpressure-related backflow.
Backflow Preventer Installation: We can install or replace backflow prevention devices tailored to your specific needs, ensuring maximum protection.
System Inspection and Repair: Our experienced plumbers will thoroughly inspect your plumbing system to identify the cause of backflow and perform necessary repairs to prevent future occurrences.
Routine Maintenance and Testing: Regular maintenance and testing of backflow prevention devices are essential to ensure they function correctly. We offer reliable maintenance services to keep your system in top condition.
Australian Standards for Backflow Prevention
All RPG Plumbing and Gas backflow prevention work is in accordance the Australian standard AS/NZS 3500.1:2018 Plumbing and Drainage
This specifies requirements for backflow prevention devices and backflow prevention in plumbing systems. This national standard aims to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water supplies.
The standard defines backflow requirements, approved backflow prevention devices, installation specifications, testing procedures, and maintenance expectations. Compliance is mandatory for authorities, licensed plumbers, and property owners.
Backflow Prevention and Fixing Backflow Issues – contact RPG
With RPG Plumbing and Gas, you can trust that our experienced team to provide reliable and effective solutions for backflow prevention and fixing backflow issues.
Whether you need regular maintenance, installation of backflow preventers, or emergency repairs, we are here to ensure your water supply remains safe and uncontaminated.
Contact us today for all your plumbing needs, and experience the trust, reliability, and expertise that define our service.
Image courtesy of the Backflow Prevention Association of Australia