Backflow testing is crucial to ensure that the water used in businesses is clean and safe. This test is done to ascertain if water is slowing in the right direction. If water is going in the reverse direction, then it could potentially contaminate the clean water supply and it may pose a lot of risks related to water-borne diseases to users.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of regular backflow testing and understand some of the common backflow issues that may occur in water systems.
Reasons for backflow testing
Protecting public health
Businesses and organisations such as food and health industries have to ensure that they supply clean and safe water to their clients. These industries receive many clients every day who need clean water to drink. Hence, backflow testing is important in such areas as it helps to prevent contamination of water, which can lead to the spread of harmful bacteria and chemicals that can prove fatal in the lives of users.
Compliance with law
Since the government has its citizens’ interests at heart, it has put in place strict regulations for businesses that supply the public with water to ensure that they provide clean and safe water for use, including backflow testing. A business that fails to meet those regulations stands on the verge of being closed or facing hefty fines.
Preventing water contamination
Once bacteria enter the water supply system, it will spread and contaminate the entire water supply system, making it unsafe for use by the public. The unsuspecting members of the public can easily drink and use this water and end up catching some drastic diseases, some of which claim the lives of many innocent souls. So, backflow testing is not just done to please the government but to ensure the safety of those who use that water.
Protecting business reputation
If customers and employees suspect that the business’s water is contaminated, words can spread quickly to the public, damaging your reputation and risking the closure of the business. Backflow testing can help to prevent this scenario and ensure that the company has a positive reputation for the services that they provide.
Preventing expensive repairs
If backflow testing is not in place and your water sources become contaminated, you may have to break it down and replace some contaminated equipment with new ones, this may cost you a ton of money, which you can easily avoid if you put appropriate testing techniques in place.
Common backflow issues on the Gold Coast
Cross-connections
Cross-connections refer to a situation where the potable or drinkable water gets attached to the non-drinkable water supply. If not detected early, it may result in backflow, where contaminated water used in toilets enters a clean water supply and contaminates it.
Pressure changes
Pressure changes can result from man incidents including burst pipes. These changes may cause water to flow backwards and could lead to contamination of clean water. Regular checks can help to detect changes in pressure immediately and address the issue before it becomes a menace.
Incorrect installation
Sometimes, the devices that prevent the backflow of water may be installed incorrectly by incompetent experts, this could result in water flowing backwards and getting contaminated in the process. So it is crucial to find a well-experienced expert to help in fitting the backflow prevention devices in their correct spots to prevent backflow.
You can learn more if you go to https://goldcoastplumbingservices.com.au/backflow-testing-prevention/.