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Sump pump check valves are an important part of any sump pump system. Installed in the discharge pipe leaving your sump pump, the sump check valve prevents your pump from having to re-pump water it has already discharged.
Where should the check valve be on a sump pump?
The most suitable location for a sump pump check valve is close to the floor level to minimize the volume of water that drains back at the end of each pumping cycle and it is a convenient location for easy servicing or replacement of the valve.
What happens when sump pump check valve fails?
When a check valve is not installed on your sump pump’s discharge line, a back flow of water can cause the pump impeller to rotate backwards and unscrew off the motor shaft. If this occurs, the motor in your sump pump will sound like it is running but it will not be pumping any water out the discharge line.
How does a check valve work on a sump pump?
How a check valve works. A check valve on the discharge line keeps water in the pipe from flowing back into the sump pit when the pump switches off. The water that remains in the discharge pipe will fall back into the sump pit, raising the water level again so that pumping will need to resume.
Do I need a check valve on a sump pump?
Sump pump check valves are an important part of any sump pump system. Installed in the discharge pipe leaving your sump pump, the sump check valve prevents your pump from having to re-pump water it has already discharged.
Is a check valve necessary?
Do I need a check valve? A check valve is a valve that is used to prevent backflow in a piping system. Even if a pump does have a built-in check valve, we recommend that a check valve be installed in the discharge line within 25 feet of the pump and below the draw down level of the water supply.
How often should you replace a check valve?
While typical component lifespans are application specific, manufacturers suggest metal and plastic check valves should be replace every 5-7 years whereas check valves manufactured from rubber may remain fully serviceable for up to 35-50 years.
How often should you replace the sump pump check valve?
On average, sump pumps need to be replaced every 7 to 10 years.
How do I know if check valve is bad?
Symptoms of a Failing Check Valve For example, failing check valves will start to vibrate and even lose some internal parts when problems begin to arise. Other symptoms of check valve failure include reverse flow and excessive component wear and damage. Check valves will also emit noises as they start to break down.
What’s a check valve do?
A check valve is a device that only allows the flow of fluids in one direction. Since they only allow media flow in one direction, they are commonly referred to as ‘one way valves’ or ‘non return valves. ‘ The main purpose of a check valve is to prevent backflow in the system.
Can you have 2 check valves on a sump pump?
The two check valves are NOT a problem. The problem is where the original one is. When the secondary pump operates its discharge will flow down through the other pump so all you will be doing is circulating the water.
Why does a pump need a check valve?
The humble check valve is one of the most important components of any pumping system or fluid moving application. If water continually flows back into the pump’s basin, the pump will turn on and off continuously. This will lead to improper pump cycling and eventual burnout.
How long does a check valve last on a sump pump?
It’s a difficult question to answer because every system will have some differences. Typically, our valves will last in an excess of 5 to 7 years, so we recommend replacing it that often. However, if the pump cycles frequently, that can result in the check valve wearing out faster than that.
How much does it cost to change check valve?
Depending on the size of the system and how much it costs, most homeowners pay between $135 and $1,000. The device costs between $35 and $600, while labor costs between $100 and $400. You can expect to pay between $70 and $250 for a back water or check valve.
How long will a PVC check valve last?
As one of the most-used plumbing materials, PVC pipe is known for being very durable and long-lasting. In fact, PVC pipes last approximately 100 years.
Should I be worried if a house has a sump pump?
Although sump pumps can stop most of the water, holes in the structure of your home can cause leaks and lasting damage. So, even if you have a sump pump installed in your new place, it’s important to keep an eye out for this kind of damage.
How do I know if my sump pump check valve is bad?
How to Tell if the Check Valve is Bad Check for leaky or moisture on seals, connections and valve. Fill the put 1/4 to 1/2 with water and see if it drains. Watch for water backwash into your basin during testing and rainstorms.
What happens if the check valve goes bad?
A check valve is designed and installed into a line or pipe in such a way to allow the fluid to flow only one direction. When a check valve fails it allows the fluid o flow in either direction. This action may cause a pump to fail or the fluid to flow back through the pump when it is stopped stopped.
