Preparing for Heavy Rain: Backwater Valve Tips!

Ever stare outside, watching intense rain coming down, feeling anxious about what it could mean for your home's basement? Most homeowners share that same worry, especially when the forecast looks grim.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help defend your home from potential water damage. This piece will show you what to know about backwater valve Toronto, and how they give great peace of mind.

Keep reading, there is helpful information headed your way.

What Exactly is a Backwater Valve, Anyway?

During times of intense rainfall, city sewers sometimes get overloaded. This means water could flow backward, pushing wastewater into your home through the drains. A backwater valve, indeed, is a device that allows water to only flow one way – out.

Think about this: It acts like a guard, blocking sewage from getting into your home if a backup begins. This helps prevent messy and costly damage from happening later on.

Do You Really Need One Installed?

For homes located in areas known given heavy rainfall, or those that have had prior basement flooding events, a backwater valve becomes necessary. These are places where risk is often higher.

Also, older homes linked with aging sewer systems really might benefit from these, especially if the area has a combined sewer setup. Keep in mind that your home insurance company might even offer a discount if you have a backwater valve system, too.

Types Available for Your Consider

Normally Open Valves: These valves only close when backflow exists, which allows for regular sewer gases to vent out.

Normally Closed Valves: These types of valves only open to let water leave, which can stop sewer gases, but require venting.

The option that makes enough sense depends greatly upon your specific plumbing setup and local codes. It's always a great plan to consult with a qualified plumber.

Getting Professional Backwater Valve Installation Toronto

While you might be tempted, perhaps, to handle this project yourself, installing a backwater valve often requires expert skills. A qualified plumber makes certain the valve is installed the right way.

Also, they can make certain the valve meets any local plumbing codes and get any permits when needed. Improper installs can lead to much bigger problems down the line.

Maintaining Your Backwater Valve System

Merely having a backwater valve isn't enough; you also want to make sure it stays in prime working order.

Regularly inspect your valve for debris or buildup.

Schedule yearly maintenance from plumbing experts to make certain everything works correctly.

Also, understand where the valve is and how its manual shut-off mechanism works during true emergencies.

Following these simple steps will help extend the life of your backwater valve system. It also ensures it's ready whenever needed.

Another Line of Defense

Next, it is worth noting that a backwater valve is different from a backflow preventer in Toronto. Backflow preventers mainly stop contaminated water from flowing back into the drinkable water supply.

They're usually installed on sprinkler systems or hose bibs. A backwater valve prevents sewer water from backing up into your home's drains. While different, both act as safeguards for home safety.

Finding the Right Backflow Preventer

Several different kinds of backflow preventers protect your drinking supply. Reduced pressure principle backflow preventers are often used for high-hazard applications. Double-check valve assemblies work well for low to medium-hazard situations.

Again, speak with a certified plumber in order to figure out which one meets your requirements. They will keep your water supply safe.

Final Words

Taking steps to prepare your home for heavy rains will reduce the stress felt during such storms. A properly installed and maintained backwater valve offers significant protection from sewage backups.

Coupled with backflow prevention in Toronto, your home's plumbing becomes ready given the most potential issues. Don't wait until flooding occurs.

Instead, make the right plans today! Do you want help getting started? Call your local plumbing professional now to discuss your needs and schedule an inspection!