Did you know that heavy rainfall can cause a sewer system to back up through the sewer lines and up through the drains in your basement? Sewer backups can’t be expected and can occur at any time. The smell is horrendous and it’s extremely unhealthy for you and your property.
What is Sewer Backup?
Sewer Backup is when the overall volume of sewage and water that flows into a sewer system exceeds the sewer’s capacity. The sewage and water will flow back into your home and can result into a flooded basement if you don’t have sewer backup protection in your property.
Therefore, it is important to take appropriate action in lowering the risk of sewage and water flowing into your home through your floor drains, up through tubs, toilets, or showers.
Causes of Sewer Backup
Other causes of sewer backups include excess water that come up from your sink, toilet, bathtubs, and improper disposal of grease. In addition, sewer backups is also caused by everyday waste build-ups such as hair, food, and other items that are flushed down your drains.
Preventing Sewer Backup
You can prevent sewer backups by installing a backwater valve on the main sanitary drain. A backwater valve is a device which allows a one way flow from your property to the sewer and closes up as soon as a back flow is detected. So sewage will not be able to flow back into your property when you have a backwater valve in place.
If you’re considering sewer backup protection in your property, the city of Toronto has a Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program. This program will help homeowners with a financial subsidy of up to $3,4000 to install flood protection devices like a backwater valve.
But there are also other effective prevention tips that you may want to consider.
Here are 5 tips for preventing sewer backups:
1. Don’t use water in the house during heavy rainstorms
2. Keep sewer caps on all the basement sewer outlets during heavy rainstorms
2. Install a sump pump to discharge drainage onto your lawn or driveway
3. Disconnect rainwater downspouts from the basement sewer system
4. Stop pouring cooking grease and fat down kitchen sink drains or garbage disposals
5. Extend rainwater downspouts away from your home’s foundation
About Draintony
We are a locally owned and operated plumbing company, providing residential and commercial owner plumbing services. We specialize in Drain Repair, Drain Cleaning, Basement Waterproofing, Sump Pump Installation, Clogged Toilets and more. Our team at Draintony is dedicated to providing you premier plumbing quality and premier plumbing services.
