The Dangers Of Backflow That Every Homeowner Should Be Aware Of

Your plumbing system is an essential part of your home. You rely on pipes to bring water into your property and to all the appliances. Plumbing systems also remove all the wastewater, ensuring your property doesn’t flood.

That’s why it’s essential that you have your plumbing system checked regularly and any issues addressed as quickly as possible. It is worthwhile having the contact details for a good Sydney emergency plumbing firm; they can help you if you have problems.

Understanding Backflow

Backflow means when something goes against the flow. In the case of your plumbing system, this is when water is supposed to flow in one direction but, instead, flows the other way.

Backflow can happen in your supply pipe and your waste pipes. In both cases, it can introduce toxic substances to your home, potentially causing health issues.

Backflow In Supply Pipes

The water that arrives at your home is treated at a water treatment center. It passes through filters to eliminate debris and has chemicals added to kill bacteria. In short, it is considered safe to drink.

However, suppose you have a connection in your home that takes the mains water somewhere, such as a garden irrigation system. In that case, it’s possible for bacteria and other contaminants to enter the water supply and travel the wrong way up the pipe.

If the irrigation system becomes blocked, the water will flow backward (backflow) and enter your main water supply. The water coming out of your taps will then be contaminated.

Backflow In Sewage Pipes

On the other side of your plumbing, the wastewater and waste products are taken away in pipes to the main sewers. This side usually works well. However, when the pipe becomes clogged, often due to the wrong things being put down the drain, the water has nowhere to go. It backflows and comes out in your toilet, shower, and other appliances.

The result is the sewage you’ve been trying to get rid of is actually on the floor in your home. That’s not a pleasant experience. It can be seriously detrimental to your health.

In short, the biggest issue with backflow is that it can expose you to potentially deadly contaminants.

Preventing The Issue

The first step is to add one-way valves to any pipes running off your main supply. This will prevent water from flowing back into your main supply water and ensure it’s as clean as the water leaving the treatment company.

The second step is to have your pipes inspected. Drain cameras are generally used to inspect waste pipes. They can locate partial clogs and any other issues that are likely to lead to backflow problems.

The pipes should be inspected annually, at the same time as the annual service. This will allow you to identify issues and solve them with the help of your plumber.

Of course, an annual inspection doesn’t prevent backflow from happening. But, it does reduce the likelihood of it.