Understanding Backflow Valves: Essential Information for Homeowners

Understanding Backflow Valves: Essential Information for Homeowners

There are several different types of backflow preventer with some providing a physical barrier to the backflow and others providing an air gap barrier.

Other terms often used incorrectly in lieu of backwater valve include ‘check valve’ and ‘gate valve’. And while each is a legitimate term describing a particular device, none should be confused with a backwater valve.

To muddy the waters even more, local government water departments, building/plumbing code documents and plumbers often use the term ‘backflow prevention device’ to refer to both backwater valves and backflow preventers. What’s more, several Canadian municipalities have education and subsidy programs for both backwater valves and backflow preventers.

Simply put, while expertly developed and time-tested for ensuring a municipality’s potable water does not get contaminated from various sources, a backflow preventer won’t prevent basement flooding – it is not its intended purpose.

A homeowner installing a backflow preventer when what he or she wanted or needed was a backwater valve, could be in for a rude awakening.

In Winnipeg, this was a requirement for every home 1979. Here in Ontario, it became mandatory on January 1st, 2012

Every new home is required to have a back flow valve installed.

Your home inspector must confirm that a normally open backwater valve is installed on the sanitary building drain for each dwelling unit in accordance with Ontario Building Code, Division B, section 7.4. 6.4. 2(a)(b) and the referenced CAN/CSA standards.

A backflow valve is a critical component of plumbing systems that helps to prevent the unwanted reversal of water flow, safeguarding against potential contamination. Although often overlooked, understanding the purpose and importance of backflow valves is essential for maintaining the safety and integrity of water supply. In this blog post, we will dive into the concept of backflow valves, exploring their function, types, and the significance they hold in ensuring clean and safe water for both residential and commercial settings.

Your backwater valve should last many years with proper maintenance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation and have the valve checked and cleaned once a year. And as mentioned above, keeping your system free of unnecessary materials will also help to extend the life expectancy.

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