Septic 101: A Guide For Homeowners

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Signs Of Sewer Backflow: Septic System Design Components To Prevent It

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One of the integral parts of your home is your sewer system. An efficient septic system design ensures the gray water flows in the right direction to enhance proper sanitation. In this case, the water you use in your faucets comes from the water mains while the gray water drains to the sewer line.

Sewer backflow may cause property damage in your home and risk the health of your family. For this reason, you should take action as soon as you experience sewer backflow. Here are some of the signs of sewer backflow and the septic system design components you should use to prevent it.

Signs of a Sewer Backflow

Your sewer backflow problem may manifest in different ways. However, some of the most recognizable signs include:

  • Water pressure problems, especially a sudden decrease.
  • Dirty water from the faucets
  • Strange tasting water
  • Clogged drains
  • Multiple simultaneous clogs
  • Bad odor drain odors

If you identify any of these signs, you should call your septic service provider to help you deal with the problem.

Types of Sewer Backflow Prevention Devices

If you want a design solution to your sewer backflow issues, choose from some of the septic system design components highlighted below:

Air Gap

An air gap backflow preventer is one of the simplest solutions to your sewer backflow problems. It is an open vertical space between any device that connects to your plumbing system.

Most kitchen faucets have this non-mechanical gap that allows water to flow into the sink normally. The air gap prevents water from moving back to the tap, even with high backflow pressure. Your plumber may specify the air gap distance for each of your fixtures to enhance effectiveness.

Sewer Gate Valve

A manual sewer gate valve requires hand operation. You will find the manual sewer gate valve an excellent solution for cases where you know when the backflow will occur and when it will end. On the other hand, the automatic sewer gate valve automatically shuts off when needed. Ensure your sewer expert implements the automatic type in your septic system design if you want an easy time.

Sewer Check Valves

A sewer check valve is one of the most common and inexpensive backflow preventers. This septic system design component uses a simple flap that closes when the backflow pressure builds. Consider this solution for temporary backflows that occur for less than a day because the valve doesn't stop sewer backflow completely.

Need Help?

Sewer backflow may be hazardous if left unattended. For this reason, you should talk to a sewer professional as soon as you identify sewer backflow at your home for help. As noted, efficient septic system design helps in preventing sewer backflow. Ensure that your sewer professional implements one of the designs so that your septic system prevents sewer backflow.


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