Sewer backups can cause costly damage to floors, walls, electric systems, and furniture. And while backflow preventers are required in some areas, protection for your home or business isn’t guaranteed. Backwater valves can provide added protection.
What is a Backwater Valve?
While backflow preventers prevent sewage water from entering the city water system, backwater valves prevent sewage water from entering an individual system. They are installed on individual sewer lines to make sure water can only flow in one direction (which is out) through your home or business.
Backwater often occurs during heavy rainfall but it can occur anytime there is sewage backup, causing sewage water to pass back into your home through showers, toilets, or other drains.
When Do You Need a Backwater Valve?
Some municipalities may require that you install a backwater valve, while others may recommend it, or your homeowner's insurance may provide a discount if you have one. And while it may be smart to install a backwater valve as a preventative measure in any home, it can be particularly important if your home is located below the level of the first upstream sewer manhole.
In most homes, basements are the most prone to flooding. For this reason, this is where you’ll typically find a backwater valve installed, if you have one. If you have a sump pump, it will likely be nearby.
How Does a Backwater Valve Work?
A backwater valve typically has a cylindrical shape with a twist-off lid and pipe connector on either side. Within is a small valve with a floater device on each side. When there are low amounts of water, the valve stays down to allow water to exit from your home. But elevated water levels trigger the floaters to pull the valve down, preventing any water from entering. Once water levels return to normal, gravity pulls the valve back down.
How to Prevent Sewer Backups
Most backwater problems aren’t a result of sewer backups. However, according to the Insurance Information Institute, the rate of backed-up sewers has increased about 3 percent annually over the past few years. This could be for a number of reasons, including older sewer systems, pipelines that combine rain water and raw sewage, growing tree roots in search of water, and major blocks in the main sanitation system.
3 Ways to Prevent Backups
1. Proper Disposal
Disposing of grease or paper products down the drain can cause sewage backups in both individual and city sewer lines. This is because used grease solidifies and papers take a long time to dissolve.
2. Tree Maintenance
Older and larger tree roots near sewage lines may need to be trimmed regularly by a professional, or root barriers can be installed to stop growth in a specific direction. You can also replace old pipes with newer plastic pipes that resist interference from roots.
3. Staying to Code
Especially when buying a new home, make sure an inspector looks closely for any illegal plumbing concerns. Illegal pipeline connections can cause issues in drainage.
Backwater Valves vs. Backflow Preventers
It’s important to acknowledge the difference between backwater valves and backflow preventers. If you are experiencing issues with contaminated or discolored water, noticing particles in running water, or picking up sulphur-like smells, you may have an issue with your backflow system. This can’t be fixed with a backwater valve and you should contact a plumber immediately.
On the other hand, backflow preventers are not designed to prevent your home from getting flooded. The Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction can provide additional information on the importance of backwater valves and how to properly maintain them. These devices are proven to be effective against flood damage, though a malfunctioning device could create problems.
Additionally, you should refrain from using excessive amounts of water when your backwater valve might be in use, such as during a heavy rainfall. This includes activities like long showers, running the dishwasher, or doing a load of laundry. When your backwater valve becomes activated, it not only prevents water from coming in, it also stops water from going out.
Protecting your home from flood damage can save you from costly repairs and long-term housing issues. Understanding the requirements of your area and the different ways to protect yourself will help you keep your home, business, family, and community safe.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.