What is a backflow prevention device?
A backflow prevention device is a valve that prevents potentially harmful polluted water from entering the city’s drinking water supply when an incident such as a drop in pressure causes water to be drawn back into the main from private properties.
When is a backflow prevention device required?
You may have a backflow prevention device on your property if you have any of the following:
- an irrigation system
- fire hose reels or hydrants
- vehicle or bin wash down bays
- A commercial or industrial activity or machinery connected to the mains
- Water outlets in proximity to pollutants, grease traps or chemicals
What causes backflow to occur?
A backflow of water can occur when there is a change of water pressure due to events such as a burst water main or firefighting operations causing the water to flow backwards from a private property into the main water supply.