A sump pump check valve’s purpose is to prevent water from flowing back into the pit when the pump shuts off, thus increasing efficiency, decreasing power consumption and extending the life of your sump pump.
These valves come in both gravity closing and spring assisted closure styles. The latter is often referred to as a “quiet” or “silent” check valve.
Installation
Check valves are essential components of any sump pump system to prevent water from returning into the pit. They allow a pump to drain water away from the basin and into sewers, while also blocking solids or debris from entering.
When choosing a check valve for your basement or crawlspace, there are plenty of options to choose from. Crawl Space Ninja can assist you in finding the ideal solution to suit both your home and budget – contact us today to book an appointment!
Installing a check valve can be an intricate task, but it is critical to follow the correct installation procedures for your sump pump system’s safety and longevity.
Before you begin, remove as much water from the sump pump pit as possible. Doing this helps protect the check valve from becoming clogged with small pebbles or sludge that could cause it to malfunction.
If you’re not sure of the size of your sump pump pit, having an expert measure it for you is a wise move. Doing this will help avoid unnecessary expenses and issues in the future.
Next, make sure to locate the proper sump pump check valve for your basement or crawlspace. A check valve should be placed in an accessible place that will make inspection, servicing and replacement a breeze.
When installing a check valve for pumps, the ideal location should be at least 10 inches above their discharge point. This helps to minimize air lock and vapor lock issues.
Installing a check valve at this height can also protect your pump from being damaged due to stale air that gets trapped in its plumbing. This could result in an early wear and tear on the pump, costing you more money in the long run.
Installers often make the mistake of placing a sump pump check valve too high on the discharge pipe. This causes the pump to empty out the pit during running cycles and drain again when shutting off, leading to an abrupt rise in water levels in the pit. Over time, this could wear out your pump rapidly or even cause it to stop functioning altogether.
Troubleshooting
Sump pumps are essential systems that help prevent basement flooding and water damage in homes susceptible to flooding from heavy rains or storms. Without them, homeowners could face major water damage issues.
However, even sump pumps can experience issues that prevent proper operation. Sometimes the issue may not be due to a breakdown in the system but simply debris and contaminants entering the pump.
When this occurs, the pumping process may become significantly slower and eventually stop altogether. To inspect your sump pump and other components of the system, contact an HVAC expert for inspection.
When diagnosing a sump pump, the initial step should be to inspect its discharge pipe and pit. Doing this can determine if there are any leaks in either of them or if the pit is empty. Additionally, pour some water into the pit to see if activation occurs.
If it does, you must replace the check valve immediately. This is a relatively straightforward task and worth doing to guarantee your system runs optimally.
When selecting a check valve for your application, the size of your sump pump should be taken into consideration. Larger systems require larger valves while small systems may only need smaller options.
Sump pump check valves come in three basic varieties: flapper/swing type, gravity closing and spring assisted closing. The former is the most common, opening when the pump starts and closing once water levels drop below their set point. These valves may be referred to as “quiet” or “silent” due to not making a loud clunking sound when shutting off the power.
The spring assisted closing type is a more efficient option. This valve utilizes a spring to apply low force on the flapper as it closes against the seat, eliminating noise and decreasing the risk of water hammer which could lead to premature pump failure.
Maintenance
When it comes to sump pump maintenance, one of the most essential steps you can take is making sure your check valve is functioning optimally. This valve plays an essential role in keeping your system dry and can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your home dry.
A sump pump check valve is a device that allows water to move from your discharge pipe up into the pump, but prevents it from flowing back down into your pit when the pump shuts off. Without one, your sump pump could end up pumping the same water repeatedly which could overheat its motor and cause it to burn out prematurely.
This is why a sump pump check valve is so critical and why it’s recommended that you replace your old one when it starts to malfunction. If you’re uncertain whether or not a replacement is necessary, call a plumber to inspect the valve for you.
When selecting a check valve, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, ensure the style meets your requirements. Furthermore, look into the quality of the product itself.
Keep in mind how frequently your check valve should be tested. Experts suggest checking them every seven to ten years to guarantee optimal functionality and ensure the valve lasts its intended lifetime.
Additionally, take the time to clear away any debris that could clog the valve, such as small pebbles and sludge. Left unchecked, these substances could lead to check valve malfunctioning.
The check valve also helps prevent your pump from abruptly stopping when turned off, which could occur if installed incorrectly (e.g., too high up on the discharge pipe).
Replacement
Sump pumps are essential elements in any basement, shielding it from flooding and water damage. When they begin to malfunction, however, the best course of action is to replace them immediately.
When it comes to installing a pump in your basement, there are various types available that can help achieve this purpose. Submersible pumps, for instance, are more permanent and located beneath your floor for less visible operation than pedestal pumps; on the other hand, pedestal pumps offer more portability and convenience.
The most affordable and widely-used type is a pedestal sump pump. This model operates more quietly than its submerged counterpart, can handle larger basins, and has an extended lifespan.
If your pump is making strange noises, clicking, grinding, or showing other signs of wear and tear, it might be time for replacement. A qualified HVAC specialist can diagnose the issue and suggest a solution; they may even install a new sump pump if needed.
For many homeowners, a sump pump that isn’t working correctly can be an irritating situation to contend with. It’s especially frustrating when your sump pit appears empty when it should be full of water.
To prevent this, always check your sump pump’s battery level and make sure it is charged. A dead battery will prevent the pump from functioning correctly.
Additionally, inspect the snifter valve on your well or lake water pump check valve to make sure it’s functioning correctly. It should open to allow air in at the end of each pump-on cycle.
When your pump stops running, make sure it shuts off automatically. Otherwise, your tank may have become waterlogged and lack proper air charge.
Are you uncertain if your sump pump check valve is functioning correctly? Contact us today for a free quote! We’d be more than happy to come out and inspect your system, as well as help determine the most suitable solution for your requirements – so that your basement stays dry and safe!
