Backflow Problems in Residential Plumbing Lines
Plumbing problems can be pretty scary when you don’t know the cause. The best a homeowner can do when a plumbing problem occurs is to seek emergency plumbing services – especially if the plumbing problem is backflow.
What is Backflow?
Clean water enters the home through municipal water lines, while dirty water exits the home through municipal sewer lines. Basically, backflow occurs when dirty water flows in the wrong direction, flowing backwards through the clean water lines and entering the home’s plumbing system. An example is a toilet backing up and overflowing with dirty water instead of flowing out through the sewer lines.
Emergency plumbers describe this contaminated water as water that may contain urine, feces, viruses, bacteria, chemicals, and pesticides. It goes without saying that all of these substances are harmful to humans and pets and can cause illness – not something you want in your home!
Why Does Backflow Occur?
Backflow should not occur in residential dwellings, and in fact, many municipalities have strict rules and codes for the correct installation of automatic backflow valves to prevent it from happening. When a backflow problem does occur, it’s considered a plumbing emergency and the homeowner should call a plumbing services provider as soon as possible.
The main cause of backflow is back pressure. More air pressure is in the plumbing system than in the water supply, causing the water to flow backwards. Other causes are excessive rain or flooding that damages sewage lines running to the home. In those instances, the backflow can occur in sinks, showers, or tubs, contaminating kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, or any area where there is a water line.
How Are Backflow Problems Repaired?
An emergency plumber inspects the plumbing lines and performs checks of the automatic backflow preventer, which is a valve that keeps expelled water out. Once repairs have been made, unnecessary air pressure is then removed from the plumbing lines.
Do You Have a Backflow Issue? We Can Help!
If you live in or around Saskatoon and you require an emergency plumber, or you have questions about backflow, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.