Table of Contents
Where do you install backwater valve?
The backwater valve should be installed under the floor of your basement, attached to the main sanitary sewer close to where it leaves your house. It can sometimes be located in your front or back yard depending upon where the city sewer lines are located.
How much does it cost to install a backwater valve?
Installing during the initial construction is naturally much cheaper, and can be installed for between $150 to $250. When retrofitting, some concrete will need to be removed to access the main sewer line. The cost to retrofit a backwater valve can range from $1,000 to $2,000.
Should I install a backwater valve?
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.
Can a backwater valve be installed outside?
Backwater valve outside installation (exterior) Backwater valves can be installed on the outside of a building. In these cases a high slope on the sanitary sewer lateral must be present in order to obtain proper installation.
How do I stop my sewer from backing up?
How to prevent a sewer backup Flush only toilet paper. Keep sewer lines clear of tree roots. Do not plant trees or bushes near sewer lines or laterals. Hire a professional to install an exterior cleanout. Avoid putting fat, grease and oil down the drain. Line or replace old pipes. Install a sewer backup valve.
Can I plug my basement floor drain?
Floor drain. Test balls, twist plugs or pressure plugs can be installed to seal floor drains but will not let water flow in either direction. If plugs are not available, a flexible rubber ball that is just larger than the pipe diameter can be used in an emergency but will need to be braced in place.
Does a backwater valve need to be accessible?
Although they are self operating, they are in fact “valves” and cannot be buried in the structure. These valves come with covers that often look like cleanouts and can be extended deeper if necessary. They need access for maintenance, but should not need to be opened during each and every backflow event.
Is a backwater valve the same as a backflow preventer?
A backwater valve is a backflow prevention device used to prevent outbound water through a dwelling’s drain pipes from re-entering — “back flowing”—into a home. The valve contains a flap that allows water to exit the home, but closes to prevent the back flow into the home.
How do I stop my basement sewer from backing up?
How to Prevent Sewer Backups? Maintain your sewer lateral. Dispose of grease properly. Dispose of paper products properly. Consider plastic piping. Correct illegal plumbing connections. Consider a backwater prevention valve.
Where do you install a sewer backflow preventer?
A sewer backflow valve can be installed in the main sewer pipe outside of your home or in the basement at the farthest exit point from the home. The device is installed downstream to prevent sewage from flowing into your sewer pipe above the device.
Can a backwater valve fail?
Like many things in a home, backwater valves require periodic maintenance to ensure proper performance over time. An improperly maintained valve may fail during a flood event.
Why does my sewer back up when it rains?
Sewer backups are a common plumbing problem that occurs over the summer months. Summer storms bring heavy rain to the area, which overwhelms storm sewers (water runoff from rain) as well as sanitary sewers (the ones that handle human waste). Debris may also be washed into the sewer lines, which can lead to clogs.
Why does sewer backup into basement?
What Causes a Sewage Backup? Clogs, buildups in pipes from grease, or improperly flushed items, such as paper towels or single-use wipes, are common causes of sewage backup. Damage to the sewer lines can also cause a sewage backup because it prevents water from flowing correctly.
How do you tell if your plumbing is backed up?
How To Tell If My Sewer Line is Clogged Gurgling sounds coming from the toilet. Multiple slow-running drains in your home (low water pressure) Water coming out of your shower when using the washing machine. Foul odors coming from your drains. Sewage coming back up through drains.
What type of backflow preventer is required?
There are two different types of testable backflow prevention devices that are commonly specified — a reduced pressure zone backflow device and a double check backflow device.
Why do my basement drains smell?
A strong sewer smell coming from your basement is most often caused from a dried out floor drain, a bad ejector pit seal, improperly vented appliances or fixtures, or even a damaged sewer line. Most floor drains also include a cleanout plug inside that sometimes doesn’t get replaced.
Is it OK to seal a basement floor?
Why should I seal my basement floor and walls? Applying a basement floor sealer is a good way to help protect your basement and home from the harmful effects of moisture vapor, radon gas, mold and mildew. Finishing off your basement could trap moisture vapor that naturally migrates up through the concrete.
Can you snake a standpipe?
If the clog is small, you may be able to clear it with a hand-operated snake. 30 seconds to a minute—If the stoppage doesn’t cause the water to surface for 30 seconds or more, the clog may be deeper in the drainpipe system. This may require a long drain-snake to reach deep into the pipe and free the clog.
