Backwater valves are an important part of any homeowner’s plumbing system. A backwater valve ensures floods and sewage does not come back up into your basement, causing flooding and damage to your home. They usually work using gravity so, once installed, the device will work on its own to keep your home dry. If your home does not have one, it may be time to install a backwater valve.
Plenty of reasons exist for backwater valves, but we thought we would share three of the most important reasons to plumbers in Toronto are so busy installing them.
Your Home Receives A Lot of Rain
If you live in a part of the world that experiences a lot of rain or has occasional flash floods, then a backwater valve is absolutely necessary. While most cities in these areas prioritize their sewage and drainage systems, you cannot just rely on city works to keep your own home safe from unusually high rainfall. Instead, be proactive and install a backwater valve. That way, your home will be protected from floodwater coming back up through the sewers and drainage pipes, which could permanently damage your home.
Your House Uses a Sump Pump
Drainage systems in houses change almost door-to-door and each has its own needs and problems. Sump pumps are generally used in houses where the water table rests above a home’s foundation, which means water needs to be drained above that level, usually onto the lawn. While sump pumps themselves are a way to avoid floods, they are not totally foolproof machines. A backwater valve will act as a backup if the worst happens, which can happen as the water table around your house rises and falls. But because sump pumps work with motors and other parts, they can fail, so a backwater valve is an easy and effective fail-safe if your pump needs to be fixed or replaced.
You Do Not Have a Backwater Valve
Backwater valves are becoming increasingly mandatory in homes, so check your local laws and see if you need one. In Toronto, there are some City rebates that you may qualify for. If you live in an older home before the law was introduced, you may have to install one to keep your house up to code. Like everything in your home, backwater valves need to be maintained, so be sure to clean and inspect yours every six months to keep it working. Most backwater valves work through gravity, with water flowing in the wrong direction pushing a valve closed to keep water at bay. Because of how they work, they can be forced shut or jammed with debris, so regular maintenance can keep your backwater valve operating smoothly.
If your home does not have one, or your’s needs to be replaced, then it is time to install a backwater valve. Luckily, the device and installation is relatively inexpensive and will keep your basement clean and less likely to experience expensive flooding.
