Toilet Bidets and Backflow Prevention
Toilet bidets and smart toilets are becoming more and more popular as time goes on in Australia, with various options now available on the market.
But ensuring you are aware of the regulations when it comes to bidets and smart toilet installation is incredibly important - and may be something that you haven’t considered before now. Keep reading to learn about bidets, smart toilets and backflow prevention and, if you require some further help in Sydney, give our expert plumbers a call on 0407 837 729.
What is a bidet?
A bidet is a sanitary fixture equipped with a douche device for producing a jet of water, from a point below the rim of the pan, which can be applied to the body.
You may have also heard the term ‘bidette’, which is a sanitary fixture equipped with a douche but with over rim type water outlets, providing an airgap.
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What is backflow?
The term backflow refers to the reverse flow of unwanted contaminated water that makes its way into the main water supply from either a residential or commercial system. This contaminated water will contaminate the main supply if contact between the two is made.
How does backflow occur?
Backflow occurs when there is a sudden pressure drop in the water main outside of your property (e.g. there is a break in the system in your street). The effect of this may result in water within the fixtures (bidets, toilets, hoses, irrigation systems etc.) in your home being syphoned back into the public water main. This can potentially pollute your (and your neighbours') potable water system – and no-one wants to drink water from their neighbour's bidet!
What is backflow prevention?
Backflow prevention is the device that is installed to stop the cross-contamination from occurring by not allowing the contaminated water to head back into the main supply.
What are the different kinds of backflow prevention?
The main backflow prevention methods are as follows:
- Air gaps
- Break tanks
- Double check valves
- Reduced pressure zone device
- Pressure vacuum breaker
- Single check valve (testable)
- Double check valve detector assembly
- Reduced pressure zone detector assembly
- Single check valve detector assembly
How do you know which backflow prevention device should be installed?
The hazard rating of the source of contamination will determine the kind of backflow prevention device required. The hazard rating is decided in accordance with AS-NZS 3500-1 Section 4.3: Cross-Connection Hazard Rating:
Cross-connections are rated using three degrees of hazard:
- High Hazard: Any condition, device or practice that, in connection with the water supply system, has the potential to cause death.
- Medium Hazard: Any condition, device or practice that, in connection with the water supply system, has the potential to endanger health.
- Low Hazard: Any condition, device or practice that, in connection with the water supply systems, constitutes a nuisance but does not endanger health or cause injury.
Are there regulations when it comes to backflow prevention?
Yes, there are a few different legislative and regulatory documents to consider when it comes to backflow prevention in Sydney:
- Plumbing and Drainage Act 2011 (NSW).
- Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2017 (NSW).
- Plumbing Code of Australia [PCA].
- AS3500.
All connections to our water and recycled water pipes must be protected with backflow prevention containment devices. A plumber should also check with the Network Utility Operator for any requirements regarding Site Containment backflow devices.
Do toilet bidets and smart toilets need backflow prevention?
A toilet seat douche or bidet must comply with AS/NZS 3500 Part 1 Water Services Clause 12.2.3.
A douche outlet installed at least 25mm above the overflow level of the pan, at any position, does not require a backflow prevention device.
If the douche outlet is less than 25mm above the overflow level of the pan, at any position, a ‘high hazard’ backflow prevention device must be installed (see figures 1 and 2). The device must comply with AS/NZS 2845.1 or AS 2845.2.
Which hazard rating are toilet bidets and smart toilets?
Toilet bidets and smart toilets are deemed high hazard in accordance with AS 3500.1:
The drinking water supply shall be protected from the hazard(s) by installing—
- (a) individual protection at each toilet douche seat connection with a high-hazard backflow prevention device; OR
- (b) zone protection with a high-hazard backflow prevention device installed on the water supply line that serves each Toilet douche seat connection and this water supply line is separately connected to the main drinking water supply.
It is worth noting that in all situations, the connection point for a bidet outlet shall be taken from a drinking water supply. Non-drinking water supply cannot be used for this purpose.
Why do toilet bidets need backflow prevention?
The big reason as to why toilet bidets and smart toilets require backflow prevention devices is water quality and the health of people using it. Water pollution can occur if backflow devices are not installed, which can make people very sick.
Who can install a backflow prevention device?
An appropriately qualified and licenced plumber is the only person who can install a backflow prevention testing device.
Are there testing requirements for backflow prevention devices?
Yes. Your accredited backflow plumber must test high and medium hazard devices:
- At installation
- Every year after the device is installed
If you require further information regarding backflow prevention and the services we offer, give Pure Plumbing Professionals a call on 9191 7374.
