Backflow prevention protects Melbourne’s drinking water supply from contamination. When mains pressure drops, a garden hose submerged in a bucket of fertiliser or pesticide solution can siphon that contaminated water back into the supply line — a serious public health risk. Backflow prevention devices physically block this reverse flow.
Victorian Regulations
Under the Plumbing Regulations 2018 (Vic), backflow prevention devices are required on all outdoor taps where hoses are connected — both residential and commercial. A licensed plumber installs an atmospheric vacuum breaker on each outdoor tap as part of installation. Existing taps without backflow prevention can be retrofitted at $30-$80 per tap plus labour.
Commercial Requirements
Commercial premises with high-hazard connections (chemical handling, medical, food processing) require testable reduced pressure zone (RPZ) devices, tested annually by a licensed tester and registered with the water authority. A licensed plumber installs and certifies all devices and can advise on the correct device type for each connection.
Sedcon Plumbing — Backflow Prevention Across Melbourne
We install and certify backflow prevention devices for residential and commercial properties across Melbourne. Call 0468 013 012.