Do I Need a Backwater Valve?

Inside the structure of your house there is a complex pattern of drains, pipes, vents and valves; in other words- your plumbing system. And just how regularly do you examine your house plumbing system?

The most homeowners will say not very often; and this is because they don’t know what and where to look for until the damage happened.

Moreover, the most issues can be easily repaired (for instance slow leaks); but issues like a sewage backup may be a sign of a more serious problem. Don’t wait for the raw sewage to gurgle up through the floor drain in the basement. You should get ahead of the problem simply by installing a backwater valve. When it comes to your house plumbing system, a backwater valve is a lifesaver.

What is a Backwater Valve?

A backwater valve is intended to make sure that sewage will not come up in your basement and cause flooding. The backwater valve installed on your sewer line will allow sewage or water to only flow in one way.

When your house is connected to a city sewer line, heavy sudden rainfall may overwhelm the system; and cause water or sewage to flow back in the direction of your house. This will never happen when you have a valve installed.

Backwater Valve Installation

With a basement in your house, or when the ground floor is less than a foot above the street level; then you are at high risk of water backup.

Numerous municipalities require a backwater valve installed; while others will simply recommend it. Check into your municipality’s code to see if you are obligated to have backwater valve; plus are there any subsidies accessible.

How is the Backwater Valve Working?

On the inside of the backwater valve there is a small flap that usually stays open in order to allow the water to flow out from your house. And it will also allow the ventilation of the sewer gases.

Also on each side there is a small float device that will cause the flap to lift up and then close if the sewage or water starts to flow back in the home.

When the water will stop flowing back in your house; the flap will drop in an open place again because of the gravity.

Many homeowners are not sure whether their home’s plumbing system has a backwater valve or not.

So, take a look in the region of your basement. Backwater valves are located in the floor. They have easily removable round cover for maintenance. The backwater valve is most likely close by the sump pump in your crawlspace or basement.

Should I install a Backwater Valve?

Although a backwater valve is not compulsory for all homeowners; there are definite risk factors that can signify when one is essential.

These are the signs that you must have a valve installed in your house;

Rain Floods

If you live in a neighborhood that receives a lot of rain; then a backwater valve is necessary. Unexpected heavy rain may cause the city sewer line to back up in your home. Sadly, municipalities are often more focused to maintain the drainage and sewage systems rather than the effect they may have on homeowners.

Installing the valve will guarantee that your house is protected from the floodwater and also the sewage. They won’t be able to back up in your home and cause a lasting damage.

The Drainage System in your Home

Furthermore, when your home has a sump pump; consider having a valve installed.

Sump pump is usually installed in houses where the water table rests over the house foundation. The water has to be drained higher than that level on the lawn I order to prevent it from seeping into your house. The sump pump is designed to avoid a flood; but they have their own downfalls. They rely on motors that can fail; and electricity, that may not be obtainable. In case of a sump pump fail a valve is an enormous backup.

Local Regulations

Check the local regulations to find out if your home requires a backwater valve. You can also find rebates or subsidies available for having a valve installed.

Don’t Risk a Sewer Backup when You May Prevent One

The process of installing a backwater valve can look like a difficulty; but less difficult than lasting and costly damage to your house due to flooding.

Contact our skilled technicians at Draintony today in order to get more information about installing a backwater valve in your house; or inspecting and maintaining your existing one.