Where to Install Check Valve on Well Pump

Some well pumps have built-in check valves. Even if a pump has 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.

check valve for well pump

More Information about Check Valve for Well Pump


What is a check valve in well pump?

A check valve is a device used to control the flow of liquid by allowing the liquid to flow only in one direction. In a well pump, it allows water to flow out of the well only when pressure builds up in the pump. This prevents the reverse flow of the fluid out of the pump.


How much does a check valve for well pump cost?

It depends on the type of valve, but you can get them anywhere from $30 to $300. The price will vary depending on whether you choose a brass or plastic valve.

A well pump with a built-in check valve is often an optional add-on, so we can’t say exactly what it would cost without knowing what kind of pump you have.


Which valves are best for well pumps?

A ball valve and flapper are both effective in well pumps, and they are often used together as one valve. Flapper valves don’t hold their position permanently like ball valves do, but they can be set to close when the water level rises.


Is a check valve necessary on well pump?

A check valve is not required if the pump is equipped with a ball valve or a spring-loaded ball valve. 


How does a check valve work?

When the water level in the well drops below the level of the check valve, the pressure on the water pushes the ball (or other moving parts) against the force of the spring or other biasing mechanism. This allows water to flow out of the pump and back into the supply tank.

When the water level in the well rises above the level of the check valve, the force of the water pressure is now opposed by the force of the spring or other biasing mechanism.


What is the difference between a foot valve and a check valve?

A foot valve is one that opens up when you put your foot on it. A check valve, on the other hand, only opens up when there is pressure on the other side of it.


Do you need a check valve on a well pump?

Yes, it is very important for the pump to have a check valve because, without a check valve, water could get back into the well after it has been pumped out. This would cause the water level in the well to rise and eventually destroy the pump.

On the other hand, having a check valve on the discharge line of a well pump only controls the outflow of water. It does not prevent the reverse flow of water from the supply tank into the well.

So, even if the check valve is closed, water could still get back into the well if there is enough pressure in the supply tank.


Final thought

on using check valves Check valves are a very useful way to prevent the reverse flow of water through a pump. 

However, they should never be relied upon as the only way to control the flow of liquid. That would be extremely dangerous and could cause your pump to fail. I hope you found this information helpful.

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