backwater protection
The most effective and safest protection against backwater is to ensure that the structural design provides for a sufficient elevation difference between the effective backwater level and the reference level of the drainage points. However, this is not always possible. Therefore, technical protective measures must be put in place.
Identification of the discharge points requiring protection
The next step is to identify which drainage outlets require backwater protection. As a general rule, drainage outlets located above the backwater level that can be drained by a gradient must not be drained via a backwater prevention system. In a separate system, rainwater and wastewater must be discharged separately. In a combined system, rainwater and wastewater must be led out of the building via separate downpipes, collection pipes or main drainage pipes. For hydraulic reasons, the main drainage pipes and collection pipes must be joined outside the building as close as possible to the connecting sewer at the property boundary. The joining should take place in a chamber with open flow.
If drainage points above the backwater level are drained via a backflow prevention system, there is a risk of internal flooding in the event of backflow. This non-compliant pipework must be rectified in all cases.
That is why correct cable routing is important
Failure to observe these principles can lead to internal flooding in the event of backflow and must be regarded as a design fault. Consequently, this principle of correct pipe routing is of paramount importance in professional project planning. This must also be checked during any renovation or conversion work. Incorrect pipe routing must be corrected. This can be achieved by separating waste water and rainwater before installing backflow prevention systems.
Please note:
If uninterrupted drainage is required, e.g. for a washing machine, the installation of a backwater pumping station (Pumpfix) is recommended.
If rainwater is combined with waste water pipes within the building, there is a risk of internal flooding. This risk is actually increased by the installation of a backflow prevention system and can only be avoided through correct pipework routing.
