plumbing flood sump pump

Plumbing and Flood Risks: Water Flow and Sump Pump

In part one of this multi-part blog series, we went over some of the basic homeowner responsibilities when it comes to limiting flood risks in their home. Both with regard to plumbing fixtures and several other features of the property, even including elements like flood zones and maps that many consider while purchasing or building a new home, limiting flood risks is important not only for safety, but also for property value and quality.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we’re happy to offer numerous emergency plumbing services, including those that help our clients deal with flooding issues or other plumbing problems that may lead to these issues over time. Part two of our series today will dig into several other homeowner areas to consider for preventing or avoiding flood risks, including those our plumbers will be happy to assist you with.

Water Flow Routes

One simple way to prevent any possible exterior flood risks from impacting your home is by diverting what are known as water flow routes. This involves sloping the surface of the ground away from the foundation of your home, something that should be done by a strong building contractor during any new home build today – but can also be done later on existing homes.

This process is known in the construction industry as “positive lot grading,” and is vital. But it’s also vital to check this slope and water routes at least once a year, as they may be altered by the elements over time.

Sump Pit and Sump Pumps

If your home is in any swampy or generally wet area, or even one that receives lots of precipitation, installing a sump pit and sump pump is another move that will help prevent plumbing risks. A sump pump removes water that accumulates in its basin, or pit, and will be placed in the basement since this is the area that’s at the greatest risk here. If you’ve had any leak or flood issues in your home in the past, installing a sump pump is a good move and relatively inexpensive.

Backwater Sanitary Valves

For drains flowing away from your home, namely your main sewer line, one item that will prevent any backflow flood risks is the backwater sanitary valves. This is a valve that only allows water to flow in one direction – when water levels rise on the downstream side of the valve, it closes, blocking water from flowing in the opposite direction. These are especially useful for homes that have a reverse-sloped driveway, which will increase flood risks in normal circumstances but won’t really affect you if you have these valves installed.

For more on how to prevent flood risks from taking place in your home, or to learn about any of our plumbing or HVAC services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today.