Virginia Watson
: Twice in 14 months, we have had sewage backup through the floor drain in our basement during a torrential rain. Weve heard from others who had the same problem that a possible solution would be a ball valve installed in the drain, that would seal it off if water etc. rose to a certain level. When we called our plumber he gave us all kinds of reasons why it wouldnt work – old drain with old threads wouldnt seal, no way for other water (groundwater seepage, clothes washer overflow) to drain, lint or other debris caught in the valve would cause it to malfunction, etc. etc. He still agreed to come check it out, but since its been 3 days & hes usually very prompt, we arent really expecting him to show up. Well probably end up consulting another plumber, but in the meantime would like to know more about these valves, & if his objections are reasonable. It seems to us, just about any drawback would be better than 1300 square foot of sewage, not to mention property loss & expensive cleanup.: TIA, : Virginia Watson: P.S. Weve been in contact with city authorities regarding a possible sewer problem, but dont expect a quick resolution – meanwhile, we are sandbagging the floor drain.Virginia,In locations where sewer backups occur ( or where the lowest sewer manhole is higher than your plumbing fixtures ) A check valve can be installed on the line to the floor drain. Before you consider check-valving the floor drain, you will want to consider whether that will just move the problem to the next highest fixture. Some homes require that the check valve be located at the main building sewer exit to prevent any fixture from overflowing. A gate valve should be placed on both sides of the check valve so that removal and replacement of the check valve can be easily done if needed.Best regards, Terry Love
