A sump pump is a device installed in homes to pump out water accumulated in a sump pit. The water is typically pumped out of the sump and away from the home or business to a safe, remote location. A check valve is often installed in the outlet pipe of the pump to prevent the backflow of water into the sump.
The sump pump check valve is an important component of your sump pump system, and it is important to know the proper height to install it. The check valve prevents water from flowing back into your sump pit after turning off the pump. If the check valve is installed too high, water can flow back to the pit and cause the pump to turn on again. If the check valve is installed too low, the pump may not be able to turn on at all.
If the check valve is installed too close to the floor of the sump, there is a risk that water will flow back to the sump when the pump shuts off. This can cause the pump to cycle unnecessarily and wear out prematurely. Additionally, if there is significant rainfall or runoff, water can back up into the sump and cause flooding.
The necessity of a check valve on a sump pump
A check valve is not necessary on a sump pump, but it is recommended. A check valve will prevent water from flowing back into the sump pit after turning off the pump. This can help prolong the pump’s life and prevent significant rainfall or runoff flooding.
Different types of check valves
Several different check valves, including ball check valves, flap check valves, and diaphragm check valves. Ball check valves have a ball that sits in a housing at the bottom of the valve. When water flows through the valve, the ball is forced up and allows water to flow through. When water flow is reversed, the ball falls back into place and blocks water flow. Flap check valves have a flap that opens when water flows through the valve and closes when water flow is reversed. Diaphragm check valves have a diaphragm that opens when water flows through the valve and closes when water flow is reversed.
Benefits of a check valve
The main benefit of a check valve is that it prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit after turning off the pump. This can help prolong the pump’s life and prevent significant rainfall or runoff flooding.
Drawbacks of a check valve
One drawback of a check valve is that it can become stuck in the open or closed position. This can cause the pump to cycle unnecessarily and wear out prematurely. Additionally, if there is significant rainfall or runoff, water can back up into the sump and cause flooding.
Another drawback of a check valve is adding resistance to water flow. This can reduce the pump’s efficiency and cause it to work harder than necessary.
Sump pump check valve height
The ideal height (unless the owner’s manual says differently) is two to three feet above the top of the sump pit. Your sump pump doesn’t have to work as hard as if your check valve were in the lower position. Because of its decreased weight, it will open more readily because there is less water above it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should a sump pump check valve be located?
The check valve should be installed as close to the floor of the sump pit as possible. This will minimize the risk of water flowing back into the pit and causing the pump to cycle. Additionally, it will help to prevent flooding in the event of significant rainfall or runoff.
How far from the sump pump check valve should be installed?
The first check valve should be placed immediately below the discharge head of the pump or as far away from it as possible (20 feet). Water pumped and flowing through a piping system has a certain amount of energy (weight x velocity) because water weighs 8.33 pounds per gallon at standard temperature and pressure.
How close to the pump should the check valve be?
Check valves are common in sump pumps. Even if a pump has a built-in check valve, we recommend adding a check valve to the discharge line within 25 feet of the pump and below the draw-down level of the water supply.
Can I have 2 check valves on the sump pump?
With two parallel check valves, you can prevent the stuck-closed scenario (as it’s improbable that both check valves would fail in the same manner), but you’re more likely to have a stuck-open fault because if either check valve fails open, the discharge water can return to the sump well.
How do I know if my check valve is working?
One way to test if a check valve is working is to pour a cup of water into the sump pit and then turn off the pump. If the water level in the pit does not rise, the check valve works properly. Another way to test a check valve is to place your hand over the discharge pipe while the pump is running. If you feel suction, the check valve is not working properly.
How do I fix a stuck check valve?
If the check valve is stuck in the open position, you can try tapping on the side of the valve with a hammer to jar it loose. If the check valve is stuck in the closed position, you can remove it and clean any debris blocking it.
You may also need to replace the check valve if it is damaged or worn out. Check valves are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, so this is not a difficult repair.
Final Words
A sump pump check valve is vital for your sump pump system. It helps to prolong the life of your pump and prevent flooding in your home. Be sure to install the check valve as close to the floor of the sump pit as possible and test it regularly to ensure it is working properly.
We hope this article has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.
