This Could Be Your Home’s Rescuer
Did you have a backwater valve at your home in 2018? How about now?
It was August of 2018 – the Philadelphia area experienced torrential rainfall and problematic flooding.
Darby Borough had declared a state of emergency. Homeowners along the Darby Creek had to be evacuated from their homes. Homes were damaged by the floodwaters. This created a disaster and headaches for homeowners. Not only were homes affected, but flooding even affected stores at the King of Prussia Mall.
On the other hand, one piece of plumbing equipment could’ve greatly managed just how bad the flooding was for a homeowner. That one piece of equipment is a backwater valve.
A backwater valve is of much importance in flooding situations and even typical rainy days. Most homeowners avoid installing a backwater valve because they don’t realize exactly how important they can be.
In order to prevent mother nature from damaging your home in the future, let’s talk more about backwater valves and why the installation will save you money and headaches.
What is a Backwater Valve?
A backwater valve is a plumbing valve designed to allow water or sewage to flow in one direction – out of your home. Sometimes called a sewer backup valve or backflow valve, the piece is installed on your sewer line.
During sudden, heavy rainfalls, your city or township’s sewer lines can get overwhelmed. This causes water and/or sewage to flow back to your home. A situation that stinks for homeowners – literally.
These valves come to the rescue and protect you from this problem.
Does Your Home Need a Backwater Valve?
The short answer for MOST homeowners in the Delaware Valley – yes.
If you live in Havertown or are looking to buy a home in Havertown, you know (or should) that the township requires a home to have the valve.
Your home also has a greater risk of a water or sewer backup if:
- Your home has a basement (or man cave)
- The home’s ground floor is less than 1 ft. above street level
Where You’ll Benefit
Firstly, in the event of a torrential and disastrous flood, you’ll save yourself the cost of emergency plumbing services. Without a backwater valve, the water backup from flooding rain enters your basement. Now you’re stuck calling your plumber and paying for emergency service.
Damage from floodwaters and sewer backups will also require repairs. Depending on your basement situation, that could mean replacing furniture and such if the basement is finished, or possibly redoing the floors entirely. Headaches and added costs that could’ve been avoided.
If you have a valve, your home is less likely to be affected by natural disasters. What does that mean for you besides the obvious? Your risk as a homeowner is lower. Your insurance provider will be more likely to give you an affordable plan.
Backwater valves can help save you money in the present and avoid huge costs in the future.
Protect Your Home with a Backwater Valve
Undoubtedly, the proper installation of a backwater valve is critical. This is no DIY project for the weekend warrior. The installation process is not a simple “plug and place” procedure. It’s best to use a licensed and qualified plumber such as Dream Team.
If you want to protect your home from water or sewage backups, all while lowering the cost of expenses like your insurance, have a backwater valve installed by our expert plumbers. When you call us, we’ll give you the 101 on valve installation and how they protect your home from a potential water disaster.