How to Replace a Sump Pump Check Valve
- Safety and preparation. Insure that the sump pit is drained of water before you begin by allowing the sump pump to complete its cycle.
- Remove the Old Check Valve. One style of check valve looks like a PVC coupling; another uses hose clamps to fasten to the PVC discharge pipe.
- Install the New Valve. ...
- Brace the discharge pipe. ...
How to install a basement sump pump?
Sump Pump Installation Steps
- If you are installing a pump in a basement for the first time, dig a pit at least 14 inches wide and 22 inches deep below the floor level. ...
- For a replacement, remove your old pump. ...
- Start your new pump installation by attaching the check valve to the PCV discharge pipe. ...
- Attach PVC pipe to the adapter and pump. ...
How do I install a backup sump pump?
- Position the backup sump pump alongside the primary pump. ...
- Attach the discharge line
- Use a PVC pipe hose. ...
- Place the T-joint in position, either upwards or across the area of the discharge pipe in the primary pump.
- take the male adapter to connect the PVC pipe hose to the hole in the T-joint.
What does the check valve do in the sump pump?
Simply put, the sump pump check valve is the component that prevents the backwash of water into the sump pit by preventing it from going back down the discharge pipe. Most sump pumps these days come with their own check valve. But installing a new aftermarket unit offers many extra benefits in some cases. So, why is it important?
How to install ABS pump?
Part 6 of 6: Install the ABS unit onto the car
- Install the module to the solenoid block. This step is only necessary if the new module is supplied separately from the solenoid block.
- Install the ABS unit onto the car. Bolt the unit to the car as necessary. ...
- Start the threads of the brake lines. ...
- Torque all the brake lines. ...
- Connect the electrical connector. ...
- Program the new module to the car. ...
How often should a sump pump check valve be replaced?
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.
What happens when sump pump check valve fails?
If the check valve fails, the water being pumped out of the sump pit will flow back into the pit, decreasing the amount of water removed per cycle while also increasing the frequency of cycles, which can cause the pump to fail prematurely. Switches are relatively inexpensive to replace.
Where is the check valve located on a sump pump?
0:356:12Sump Pump Check Valve Basics - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRight into the base. Or the discharge port or outlet of the pump.MoreRight into the base. Or the discharge port or outlet of the pump.
Can you run a sump pump without a check valve?
Without a sump pump check valve in place, all the water in the discharge pipe empties back into the sump pump pit liner. This causes the water level in the liner to rise. Higher water levels in the sump pit liner causes the pump to run more often, increasing energy costs.
How do I know if my sump pump check valve is bad?
How to Tell if the Check Valve is BadCheck 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.
How do I know if my check valve is bad?
The signs of a failing swing check valve are often audible. When the disc opens and closes repeatedly (because of low-pressure flow) or violently (because of water hammer), it emits a tapping or hammering sound, respectively.
How much is a check valve for a sump pump?
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Where should a check valve be installed?
Check valve can be installed in horizontal or vertical piping runs, with the flow running upward. Mounting for vertical installations is critical.
Is a check valve necessary?
Check valves are necessary if there is a risk of condensate backflow. For example, when a trap discharges into a common condensate collection line, there is the potential risk of backflow from condensate discharged from other traps, so as a rule a check valve should be installed.
Why is my sump pump check valve so loud?
If you hear a loud noise every time you pump stops, you have a Standard Check Valve installed. That noise is the check valve closing which creates a slamming effect when the water flow reverses in the discharge pipe after the pump stops.
Do I need a check valve on my submersible pump?
The role of check valves and recommendations for submersible systems. Check valves are required so that water is only able to flow in one direction, in order to prevent the water in the column above the pump and in the pressure tank from draining back into the well when the pump shuts off.
What does a check valve do on a sump pump?
A check valve on the discharge line keeps water in the pipe from flowing back into the sump pit when the pump switches off. A check valve is sometimes referred to as a "one-way" valve because it allows water (or any liquid) to move in one direction only.
How much does it cost to replace a sump pump check valve?
The average cost to replace a sump pump check valve is $15 to $30 for just the parts. A check valve is installed to prevent water from flowing back into your sump basin when your pump is off. A broken check valve will cause the sump pump to work too hard which can lead to burning up the engine of your pump.
Can check valves fail closed?
Reverse Flow As a result, the water waves crash through the piping and can cause plenty of damage to the check valves, which may fail to shut or experience erosion of its components over time.
How do you unstick a check valve?
0:040:49Fix Stuck Check Valves in Your Pump - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst you're gonna want to take a pair of needle nose pliers and pull the check valve out of theMoreFirst you're gonna want to take a pair of needle nose pliers and pull the check valve out of the pump head.
Where should a sump pump check valve be installed?
The best place for your check valve is as near to the floor as possible outside of the sump basin. This helps limit the amount of water that will f...
How long do check valves last on a sump pump?
Your check valve will usually last around 5 years. You should replace your check valve whenever you replace your sump pump, though.
How often should a check valve be replaced?
Your check valve should usually be replaced every 5-7 years, but if you notice an issue before then, you should take action to replace it sooner.
How long does the replacement of a check valve take?
Replacing a check valve is usually straightforward and shouldn’t take more than a few hours.
What is a check valve in a sump pump?
A check valve is an important part of keeping a sump pump system running. Sump pumps drain water out of damp areas, such as the basement of your home. The valve prevents water from running back down to the sump pump. To install a pump valve, you either have to detach the old valve or cut through the drainage pipe to fit a new one.
Where does a sump pump valve fit?
The valve fits on the discharge pipe. If your sump pump is already installed, fitting the valve means removing a section of the pipe. Many check valves have a central section where the pump is and threaded ends that connect to the pipes. Measure the central part from one end to the other.
What is a check valve?
A check valve prevents water from running back down into your sump pump after draining it. To install a check valve, you’ll need the valve, 2 PVC couplings, 2 PVC nuts, PVC cement with an applicator, and a hacksaw. Make sure your valve is the same diameter as your drainage pipe to ensure it fits right.
How to install a PVC valve?
Position the valve in the gap between the pipes. Turn the valve so the arrow printed on it points upward. The valve most likely came with a pair of rubber o-rings for waterproofing, so slide them on the ends next. Then, fit the valve in place. It’s simple, but starting with the lower end is usually a little easier. Rotate the couplers clockwise by hand to tighten the connections, then slide the PVC nuts over them.
Why should a check valve be replaced?
Main reason being that the check valve should be replaced whenever the pump is replaced, keeping them fairly close makes for an easy module removal process. To keep that process neater, cleaner, and easier, install a ball valve just above the check valve to isolate the pump to check valve module. Thanks!
How to use PVC couplers?
Place PVC couplers on the ends of the pipes. Couplers are small PVC tubes that join pipes and installations like check valves. Each coupler fits on the end of a pipe. Start with the upper coupler, pushing it onto the pipe. Once it is in place, let go of the PVC nut and fit the lower coupler onto the opposite length of pipe.
Where to install a sump valve?
The valve is easier to install on the vertical part of the pipe, which is right near the sump pump at arm’s reach. If you can access a horizontal part of the pipe, try installing it there to compensate for gravity pulling water back down toward the pump.
What is a sump pump check valve?
A sump pump check valve is also known as a “one-way valve.” That’s because they keep water from entering back into the discharge pipe whenever the motor has completed pumping. Check valves are usually made from metal or hard plastic. You can find them attached to the discharge pipe, although some may be mounted on the top of the pump.
How to determine how much pipe to remove from sump pump?
This limits the amount of water that can accumulate between the pit and the valve. To determine how much pipe to remove, measure the distance from one coupling to the other. If you purchased a valve with hose clamps, measure from between each set.
How to check if a check valve fits?
Test to see if the check valve fits lengthwise. Then sand down the ends of each section of the pipe until they are smooth. Place the PVC nuts then the couplers onto each rim of the pipe ends. If the check valve came with rubber o-rings, slide those into place as well. Then position the check valve and tighten the hose clamps. Finally, turn the couplers clockwise to tighten the connections.
How to remove a check valve?
If you are replacing an old valve with metal clamps, loosen them and remove the device. If the valve has been cemented in, try heating the adhesive with a hairdryer, then loosen the valve with plyers.
Why is a sump pump important?
If your home or business is in an area prone to flooding, a sump pump is one of the most important things you can install. They were first invented in 1946 as a means to keep water from pooling by pumping it out of and away from a building or structure. Sump pumps have to function properly to be effective. When components wear out, you run the risk of system malfunction and unexpected water damage. A sump pump check valve is one of the essential elements of the system.
Can a plumber repair a sump pump?
Our staff of local plumbers provides various types of plumbing services such as sump pump repair, sewer line replacement, drain cleaning, and water heater repair. We can work on any system, regardless of how old or who the manufacturer is. Reach out to us today to get a quote on your sump pump repair or components replacement.
What does it mean when a sump pump valve is missing?
A missing valve means that water that is pumped out can flow back into your sump pit instead of out the discharge pipe which makes the pump run much more often than it should. A simple yet inexpensive repair can mean you don’t have to replace your sump pump much sooner than needed and in some cases the sump pump check valve might be stuck!
Why do you need to have your sump pump checked?
Getting your pump checked now can save a lot of money over the years and result in a drier home without major moisture issues causing damage. Seasonal maintenance and cleaning can go along way in extending the life of your sump pump!
Why does my sump pump move?
A sump pump that has moved can mean that the check valve is not aligned correctly meaning your pump may never know that it should shut off. There are many reasons a pump can move. Seismic activity or unstable ground beneath a home is one culprit. An amateur trying to repair or install a sump pump can also spell trouble.
Why does my sump pump wear out?
Check valve failure can result in your pump wearing out very quickly due to constant use. Here are some of the reasons why sump pump check valve failure can occur, what can be done to remedy the problem and how to tell if it is happening to your check valve.
Why does my sump pump run constantly?
There are many different reasons why a sump pump check valve failure can occur. When the failure occurs, your pump may seem to run constantly because there is no valve to signal it to turn off. Check valve failure can result in your pump wearing out very quickly due to constant use.
Why is my basement water valve blocked?
Sometimes the water flow in your basement check valve will get blocked by debris that makes it past your filter and pump. Most check valve systems can clean debris to prevent backups but if the blockage is too bad it may have to be cleaned by hand. After removing the blockage make sure water is flowing out the discharge pipe.
How to tell if a check valve is working?
You can tell if a check valve is working properly look for water flowing back into your pit after the pump turns off.
Selecting a check valve
When making the decision on which sump pump check valve to get I looked at two different ones, Part A (left) and Part B (right). Part A uses compression connection and can be installed on either 1-1/4” or 1-1/2” pipe. Generally it is a more expensive option but doesn’t require any extra tools.
What I needed for the replacement
Pipe - Since my old check valve was installed 3 feet up the sump pump, I decided to replace the whole pipe to cut back on the connections that could leak down the road.
Steps that I took
Drained the water from the pit. Lifting the float so the sump pump turned on and pumped water out of the pit.
Step 1 – Safety and Preparation
- Ensure that the sump pit is drained of water before you begin by allowing the sump pump to complete its cycle. Now disconnect the sump pump’s power. The discharge pipe will likely contain some water that will spill when the old check valve is removed so ensure nothing of value is nearby.
Step 2 – Remove The Old Check Valve
- One style of check valve looks like a PVC coupling; another uses hose clamps to fasten to the PVC discharge pipe. To remove, saw or use PVC cutters to cut above and below or loosen the hose clamps top and bottom.
Step 3 – Install The New Valve
- Ensure the space cut into the PVC discharge pipe is not larger than the replacement valve. If it is, you will need to remove more of the discharge line, add a PVC coupling with a length of PVC that will allow a proper fit. The replacement check valve must be able to grip the PVC discharge pipe with both hose clamps top and below. The check valve will be marked with an arrow indicating …