Backflow is one issue that most homeowners hope they never have to deal with. In fact, it’s worth having the number of a reputable Sydney emergency plumbing company on your phone just to deal with this type of issue.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent it.
Understanding Backflow
As the word suggests, backflow is when things are flowing in the wrong direction. In the case of your plumbing system backflow means the wastewater and other items that are taken away from your home are actually coming back into your home.
If the problem isn’t quickly resolved you’ll end up with wastewater in your home, that’s not good for your furnishings or your health. Of course, the issue can also happen in your mains supply. For example, your mains supply comes in and splits, one to your kitchen and one line to your irrigation system that you use in your garden.
Heavy rain occurs and the water can’t get out of the partially buried sprinkler system. Instead, when you turn on the faucet the water is drawn from the sprinkler line instead of the mainline. This pulls the water in the sprinkler line and the water around it through your pipes and into your kitchen. You think you’re drinking clean water but you’re actually drinking the contaminants from your field.
Backflow is not a desirable situation.
Steps To Prevent It
The first thing to do is invest in one-way valves. These are generally called anti-backflow valves. They allow the water through in one direction only, effectively preventing any risk of backflow and water or home contamination.
They are the simplest solution and surprisingly easy to install. However, you’ll want a professional to install them to ensure they are fitted correctly. It’s a good idea to have them regularly inspected and maintained, this will help to make sure they don’t fail without warning.
Another thing you can do, particularly to prevent the backflow of wastewater, is to invest in a drain camera. You can slide this through your pipes periodically to ensure no clogs are starting to form.
Clogs are the most common cause of backflow issues in waste pipes, removing them before they block the pipe prevents the issue from arising.
Of course, watching what you flush down the sinks and toilets will help with this.
You should also take the time to look at your pipes, both in and out of your home. At any point, they branch you’re increasing the risk of backflow. Consider where each branch goes in order to decide whether it needs an anti-backflow valve or not. Remember, if in doubt fit one, it won’t do any harm.
An annual inspection by your plumber will help to identify any plumbing issues you have and the risk of backflow, this will allow you to take the necessary precautions and enjoy the water facilities in your home. The price of an annual inspection is low compared to peace of mind.
