Most of us don’t think much about our water supply. You turn on the tap, out comes clean water, and that’s that. But what if that water wasn’t so clean? That’s where backflow comes in—a plumbing problem that can cause contaminated water to flow back into your home’s pipes, turning your taps into a health hazard.
Backflow might sound a bit technical, but the basics are pretty simple. It happens when a sudden change in water pressure makes water flow the wrong way through your pipes. That might not seem like a big deal, but if the water flowing back is mixed with chemicals, bacteria, or waste, it’s a different story.
So, let’s break down what backflow is, how it happens, and what you can do to prevent it—without needing a degree in plumbing.
What is backflow and why does it happen?
Backflow is when water flows in the opposite direction to what it’s supposed to—essentially, back into your clean water supply instead of out through the drains.
It usually happens because of a sudden drop in water pressure, which can be caused by things like a burst pipe, a break in the mains, or even high demand from fire hydrants.
Imagine filling up a mop bucket connected to a tap outside. If the pressure drops suddenly, that dirty water can get sucked back into your home’s water supply.
Now think about the same thing happening with a garden hose submerged in a pesticide-mixed spray bottle, or a washing machine full of dirty water. Not exactly what you want in your drinking water.
The risks of backflow: It’s not just about taste
Backflow isn’t just about a funny taste in your water—it can be a serious health risk. Depending on what gets sucked into your pipes, backflow can contaminate your water with everything from bacteria and fertilisers to cleaning chemicals and sewage.
In the worst cases, it can cause illnesses or even shut down your entire plumbing system until the contamination is sorted.
This is why backflow prevention isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must. Even if you’ve never had a backflow issue before, a single incident can be enough to cause some serious headaches (and health risks).
How backflow prevention works
The good news is, preventing backflow isn’t complicated. It’s all about creating a one-way path for water, so once it’s in your pipes, it can’t go backwards.
This is usually done with a backflow prevention device—basically, a valve that lets water flow in one direction but closes if it tries to flow the other way.
There are different types of backflow prevention devices, depending on how big the risk is. For most homes, a simple one-way valve at the meter is enough to keep things safe. But if you’ve got a pool, irrigation systems, or anything else that might cause backflow, you might need something a bit more heavy-duty.
Signs you might need backflow prevention (or an upgrade)
Not sure if your home needs backflow prevention? A few telltale signs can point you in the right direction. If you notice changes in water pressure, water that’s discoloured or has a strange taste, or even gurgling sounds in your pipes, it’s worth getting a plumber to check things out.
Homes with irrigation systems, rainwater tanks, or pool connections are especially at risk. The same goes for older homes that might not have had proper backflow prevention installed when they were built.
If you’re not sure, the best move is to ask a plumber for a quick inspection. It’s usually a straightforward check and can save you a lot of stress (and plumber’s bills) down the line.
Regular testing: Why it matters
Even if you’ve already got a backflow prevention device installed, it’s not a set-and-forget situation. Over time, parts can wear out, get clogged, or just stop working properly. That’s why most local councils require annual backflow testing to make sure everything’s in good shape.
During a backflow test, a plumber will check that your backflow prevention device is working as it should—no leaks, no faults, no risks. It’s a quick process but a vital one for making sure your water stays safe.
If you can’t remember the last time you had your backflow device tested (or if you didn’t even know you had one), it’s probably time to make a call.
Backflow might not be something you think about often, but it’s definitely something worth taking seriously. The risks of contaminated water aren’t just inconvenient—they can be dangerous. Installing a backflow prevention device (and keeping it tested) is a simple but effective way to protect your water supply and your health.
If you’ve got any doubts about whether your home needs backflow prevention—or if your existing device needs testing—it’s best to get some expert advice sooner rather than later.
Regular testing: Why it matters
If you’re not sure whether your home’s protected or you need backflow testing done, give Flowtec a call at 0488 097 697or book a service online. We can help you sort out backflow prevention quickly and easily—so you can get back to worrying about more interesting things.
