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Backup Prevention Devices

The following information describes flood prevention devices that you the property owner can have installed.  The majority of these devices would need to be installed by a licensed plumbing contractor. Consult with your contractor to determine which devise best fits your needs.

Backwater Valves

A backwater valve is a fixture that is installed on your private lateral line, which can prevent or significantly reduce sewage back-ups into your home. The valve uses a gate like device to prevent water from entering your home.  A professionally installed backwater valve allows sewage to leave your home, but not back in.  

There are different types of valves.  An automatic check valve closes as soon as water begins to flow up the private lateral line from the sewer main.  A hand operated valve, installed on the private lateral line, can prevent back flow from the sewer main provided that the valve is closed before the sewer main backs up.

Advantages

  • No pressure build up under the basement floor or in the private lateral line.
  • No dangerous pipes sticking out of basement floor.
  • Basic flood relief.

Disadvantages

  • Someone would have to be home to operate the hand operated valve.
  • The automatic check valve needs to be frequently checked to ensure that it is not blocked with debris.

Standpipes

Standpipes are lengths of pipe that are open at the top and screwed into your basement floor drains.  A standpipe will hold the sewer overflow until it recedes.  They are easy to install and are generally inexpensive.

Advantage

  • They help relieve pressure caused by back-ups.

Disadvantages

  • A capped standpipe or one that is over 12" tall may rupture sewer joints under the basement floor.
  • The floor drain can not be used until the standpipe is removed.
  • The standpipe may be a trip hazard.

Plugs

Plugs are plastic or metal devices that are placed into floor drains to prevent water back-ups.  They are helpful if you only get 3-4" of water during a flood.  Plugs are easy to install and generally inexpensive.  After the rain has stopped, the plug would have to be removed to allow for proper drainage.

Overhead Sewers

A new sewer line is installed along the basement ceiling which diverts sewage from plumbing fixtures on the first floor and above.  The new line is connected to the original house sewer line as it leaves your home  in the basement or outside the foundation. The original sewer system is sealed.  Any drainage from the basement is pumped up into the new overhead sewer.  

All drains must be rerouted and reconnected to the origional sewer system.  Power outages will cause the pump to fail but the upstairs plumbing fixtures can still be used.  Although overhead sewers are most effective, it is also very costly.

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