Backflow Testing
Backflow prevention devices are installed to prevent contaminated water from entering the mains water supply and potentially making people sick by drinking the water.
If you have a backflow prevention device attached to your water service, it needs to be tested, and lodged annually to ensure it's still working as intended. You should receive a letter from Sydney Water saying your backflow prevention device needs to be tested by a qualified plumber, with a backflow testing license.
Mr. Nice is fully licensed and insured to test all backflow prevention devices and lodge all the relevant paperwork.
If you have a backflow device, feel free to call Mr. Nice to chat about your backflow prevention device, or book in a test.
A Mr. Nice Guide
Backflow might sound like something out of a plumbing horror story — and in a way, it is. It happens when water flows in the wrong direction through your pipes, potentially drawing contaminated water back into your drinking supply. Not only is it unpleasant to imagine, but it’s also a serious health risk. That’s why backflow prevention devices exist — and why regular testing is essential.
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What is Backflow?
Under normal conditions, water flows one way: from the mains into your property. But if there’s a sudden change in pressure — say, a burst water main or heavy demand on the system — water can reverse direction. If your property has cross-connections (like irrigation systems, fire hoses, or industrial equipment), contaminants can be sucked into the supply.
Think of it as your plumbing system suddenly deciding to share drinks — and not asking what’s in the glass.
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Backflow Prevention Devices
To stop contamination, certain properties must install a backflow prevention device (often a RPZ valve or a double check valve). These act as one-way gates, allowing clean water in but never letting it sneak back out.
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Why Backflow Testing Matters
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Safety – Protects you, your family, staff, and community from contaminated water.
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Compliance – Councils and water authorities require annual testing for many properties.
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Reliability – Ensures your device is working correctly before you really need it.
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Peace of Mind – No one likes the idea of mystery water flowing back into their tap.
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How We Test
Step 1: Inspection
We visually check the condition of the backflow device.
Step 2: Pressure Testing
Using specialist gauges, we measure the pressure inside the device to confirm that the check valves are holding as they should.
Step 3: Certification
Once tested, we provide certification for your records and submit results to the relevant water authority, keeping you compliant.
Step 4: Repair (if needed)
If the device isn’t performing, we service or replace components so it’s back to full protection.​
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The Mr. Nice Difference
Backflow prevention protects the community’s most vital resource: drinking water. At Mr. Nice Plumbing, we carry out testing with care, accuracy, and the courtesy you’d expect. We don’t just tick a box — we make sure your system is safe, compliant, and properly documented.
Because at Mr. Nice Plumbing, manners maketh man — and clean water is the mark of true civility.
