Sewer Backup Prevention Systems

Both interior and exterior sewer backup prevention systems serve as critical safeguards against sewage overflows, helping to protect your home from water damage and contamination. Here’s how each system works:

Interior Sewer Backup Prevention

Overhead sewer systems, also known as gravity-fed systems, are specifically designed to prevent sewage from backing up into basements or lower-level areas. These systems elevate the main floor drain and use a combination of check valves and ejector or lift pumps to redirect wastewater safely into the main sewer line. By keeping basement fixtures above the backup level, overhead systems provide excellent protection, especially in areas prone to municipal sewer backups during heavy rains when stormwater overwhelms drainage systems.

Exterior Sewer Backup Prevention

Exterior backup prevention systems are typically installed between your home’s main sewer lateral and the municipal sewer line. These systems often incorporate one or more check valves, and in some cases, a self-contained mechanism that automatically blocks sewage from flowing back into your property. Because they don’t require extensive modifications inside the home, exterior systems are a popular and effective choice for residential properties.

Important Considerations

While both interior and exterior sewer backup prevention systems significantly reduce the risk of sewage overflows, they are not foolproof. Extreme weather events or failures within the municipal sewer system can still pose a threat. Consulting with a professional, such as the experts at J.D. Johnson Waterproofing, ensures that you select the best prevention method tailored to your property’s needs.