Backwater Valves in Guelph

The frequency at which backflow valves need to be replaced can vary depending on several factors, including the type of valve, the material it is made of, the environment in which it is installed, and the amount of use it receives. In general, backflow valves should be inspected and tested annually to ensure that they are functioning correctly. If a valve is damaged or not working properly, it may need to be replaced.

It is important to note that the replacement of backflow valves is often regulated by local building codes and ordinances and may require the services of a licensed professional plumber. If you have questions about replacing a backflow valve on your property, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed plumbing team, such as the ones employed by Oosterveld Heating, for more information and guidance.

At the same time, it is imperative that homeowners recognize the signs that their home’s backwater valve needs to be replaced.

Here are some warning signs to look out for around your home that could indicate it is time to reach out to the team at Oosterveld Heating:

• Your backwater valve is leaking
• The backwater valve is cycling off and on more frequently than usual
• You notice your backwater valve is not closing correctly
• There is flooding in your basement

Do any of these signs look familiar? If the answer is yes, it may be time for your home’s backwater valve to be replaced.

The flow of water among homes and public water supplies must always be cautiously regulated and monitored for an assortment of reasons, the most important of which is the quality of the water entering residences along with sewage water flooding basement suites should public waterlines be backed up after periods of heavy rainfall. This is precisely why backflow valves and backwater valves have been invented. However, what a lot of homeowners do not know is that while it may appear these two devices are the same, they are actually different.

To ensure that you understand the differences between these two plumbing devices, read about each one in more detail below:

Backwater Valve

A backwater valve functions similarly to a doorway. When the water flows properly, it presses the small door open, allowing the water to move freely. Whenever the water begins to flow in the opposite direction, it presses against the other side of the entrance, causing it to shut. As an outcome, any backflow water from your sewage line that tries to enter your household is prevented before it can cause any harm to your home.

Backflow Valve

A backflow valve, also known as a backflow prevention valve, is responsible for preventing dirty, contaminated water from entering clean public water supplies.

So, which do you install in your home? While the legislative requirements will vary between municipalities, backwater valves are recommended as it provides an additional form of protection from flooding and other water-related damage throughout your home. As such, if your home does not currently have a backwater valve in place, the professional and licensed plumbing team at Oosterveld Heating is on standby to help guide you through the installation process.

Yes, according to Section 7.4.6.4 (3) of the Ontario Building Code, “where a building drain or branch may be subject to backflow, a backwater valve shall be installed on every fixture drain connected to them when the fixture is located below the level of the adjoining street.” Therefore, it is legally required for all new homes to be constructed after February 1, 2013, including older homes built before 2013. As such, if you live in a home or residential building that was built on or after 2013, you can rest assured knowing that these protective valves have already been installed. However, if you live in a home that is older, it is likely that no backwater valves have been installed.

Therefore, to ensure your home is protected from water damage and other contaminated water, we suggest homeowners in the Guelph area reach out to the professional plumbing team at Oosterveld Heating for assistance with installing a backwater valve in their homes.