Backwater Valves Can Prevent Sewer Backups
Investing in a backwater valve can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and restoration should a sewer backup ever occur.
The Dangers of Sewer Backups Are Numerous
Structurally, this type of water damage can really destroy the contents of your basement, the flooring, the drywall, and also lead to mold damage. Financially, sewer backups hurt as the cost to repair the materials and restore the basement will be substantial. The best strategy is to protect against sewer backups before they happen.
Professional Tip: Backwater valves are devices that only allow a one-way flow of water from your home to the sewer. Specifically, if they detect backflow from the sewer, they will close tight and prevent any sewer backup from entering your home to cause damage.
Don’t rely on the City Sewer to Protect Your Home from Damage
Since city sewers can become clogged or overburdened with water, there is always a chance they may backup into your home. Without a proper protection plan centered around a backwater valve, your home is vulnerable. Surges from the sewer will accumulate until they find a release point, which is usually the sewer drainage pipe entry point in your basement.
Ideally, you can install a backwater valve during the construction phase of your home. If you are undergoing excavation or foundation repairs, this is a good time to consider installing a backwater valve because it involves excavation. Otherwise there is an inconvenience factor when conducting the installation.
Risk Factors With Backwater Valves
One key point to keep in mind with a backwater valve is that once it shuts, there is no place for your home’s waste to go. This means that during a storm backup, your backwater valve will close and prevent your home’s waste water from flowing out to the sewer. You must avoid flushing toilets and running showers during a sewer backup because there is only a limited amount of space in the plumbing system for your waste water once the valve is shut and the sewer is not accessible.
Backwater Valve Maintenance
Inspect your backwater valve periodically for any clogging from debris. Since these valves have an accessible cover, you can remove it to check or clean the valve area. An airtight seal is also required with the O-ring attached to the lid, so you must ensure this is not damaged.
Toronto Backwater Valve Subsidies
Toronto and the GTA are fortunate in that there are municipal subsidies available for homeowners who install backwater valves. Check your local municipality websites for more information on if you are eligible for these subsidies. Not only do backwater valves make sense for protecting your home, but you may also be eligible for money to help install them.
Finally, contract your insurance company to determine if backwater valves are required in your area or under your policy, and if they will affect your coverage or insurance plan.
