Backflow valve test procedure
The backflow valve test must be done by a backflow endorsed plumber. The test involves several measurements…
- Initially the valve is flushed with water and line strainer (if present) is cleaned. Then the upstream and downstream isolating valves are tested for integrity by following a set procedures to measure pressure drop due to leakage of either valve.
- Secondly the upstream non-return valve is tested through a series of procedures
- Thirdly the relief valve is tested through a series of procedures
- Last, the downstream non-return valve is tested through a series of procedures
- Failure of any one of the above tests will necessitate repair or replacement of the relevant part, then retesting.
- If a valve passes the test, a Form 9 is submitted to council indicating all is well.
- If a valve fails the test and the valve can be repaired, with the owner’s permission it will be repaired and retested immediately. Rex carries spare parts for most valves installed in this region. Then a Form 9 is submitted to council with a notation about the repair.
- If the valve is not repaired a Form 9 indicating failure would be submitted to council.
- If a valve needs to be replaced, a Form 9 is submitted with details of the newly replaced valve. A Form 4 needs to be sent to QBCC along with the required fee as per plumbing regulations.
- After a successful test, each backflow device is tagged with UV stable calendar tags for quick reference of its compliance.
Depending on the specific type of device, a backflow prevention valve will usually need some kind of servicing every five years. Exposure to severe conditions would shorten that time or even necessitate replacement.
The most common repair required is the rubber seals, which deteriorate over time. Fortunately this usually can be done on site and reasonably quickly, with costs being labour plus parts. (Seals in some brands of valves can simply be reversed and placed back into the valve, delaying the cost of a new seal until it again starts to leak.) While the valve is open, the device is thoroughly cleaned and rubber O rings lubricated.
During your first backflow valve test Rex photographs the valve and enters the valve make and model into his tracking app. A year later his system automatically sends you an SMS reminder that the next annual test is forthcoming. You are then contacted by phone to schedule a time and date for the test. Rex takes enormous pride in being on time.
Some more information…
• Rex uses superior digital pressure gauges which are far more accurate than analog gauges.
• The TradeHack software app was developed by a Queensland plumber and TAFE instructor to keep track of the many measurements involved in each test. It also compares measurements from previous years for better insight into how your valve is aging. TradeHack also manages all backflow test customers and equipment. At any time a complete digital inventory of equipment and past tests and the associated council required Form 9 submissions can be supplied.
