The water supply system in Queensland is an elaborate network of pipes supplying and distributing water to different neighborhoods and to different types of properties. Houses are usually connected to the main line in parallel, which means that if one user shuts off their valve, other users will not be affected. The main pipes supplying water to a neighborhood are usually larger, while those supplying water to a house are normally smaller. It is important to note that backflow of water can take place when there is low water pressure in the supply lines and water levels in the pipes start receding. This means that all the water in the plumbing system of a building will flow back into the main line. If the water was contaminated, the entire section of the water supply system will be contaminated. To prevent this from happening, backflow prevention devices must be installed on every property.
Backflow Testing in Queensland
There are many types of backflow prevention devices for different types of properties. There are low hazard devices, for homes and any other type of property that may contain ‘harmless’ contaminants. There are also devices for medium and high hazard applications.
A backflow prevention device is simply a one-way valve with little chance of leaking fluid. These devices normally work in such a way that they only allow water to flow in one direction, towards the building. If water starts flowing in the reverse direction, for whatever reason, the valve will stop the flow. With time, these devices normally get worn out and they can either stop functioning or leaking. If the valve leaks, source water will be contaminated. To prevent this from happening, regular inspection and maintenance is required.
Government legislation requires every property owner whose property is connected to the local water supply to have their backflow devices tested by a certified tradesperson annually. This is usually a plumber with an endorsement on their license. After inspecting and testing backflow devices, these professionals normally issue a certificate to the property owner.
When looking for backflow testing services in Queensland, the most important factor to consider is licensing. You should ensure that a technician is a licensed plumber and has a backflow testing endorsement on their license, not just any plumber. Secondly, you should check the number of years the plumber has been operating in the region. After all, the most experienced plumbers normally offer great value for money. The availability of the plumber is also a key factor of consideration. The right plumber should be available whenever you are ready to have your system tested.
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