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The Top 10 Sump Pump Check Valve list includes 4 Quiet Check Valves, 4 Traditional 3lapper Style, and 2 Inline Style Check Valves. Use the Pros and Cons to choose the best one for your Sump Pump.
It is so easy to think only of buying the best sump pump and forget the importance of installing a good check valve to keep the sump pump motor from wearing out prematurely. A check valve stops water from flowing backwards into the pit and causing the pump motor to pump it more than once. Choosing a good check valve is challenging because there are so many options. To provide guidance in finding the best check valve for your sump pump, we incorporate our experience and research results into a list of the Top 10 Sump Pump Check Valves. The features and benefits each of these top 10 sump pump check valves highlights why they are an excellent choice for your sump pump.
How We Selected Top 10 Best Check Valves For Sump Pumps
We protect our home with four sump pumps and a sewage pump. To extend the life of the pump motors we install check valves. Many years ago we only knew about the traditional check valve and accepted the water hammer noise and leakage issue requiring check valve replacement every two years or so. Until one day we discovered the quiet check valve.
Before buying a quiet check valve we read many reviews, watched videos, talked with manufacturers, and learned that just because a check valve is marketed as 'quiet' doesn't mean it is quiet. If the 1/2 pound spring is missing it is not 'quiet'. Finally we decided to try a real quiet check valve: The Campbell B-0823-15C manufactured by Magic Plastics. Its size was much larger than we thought and it was heavy and the discharge pipe had to be cut and the valve connectors had to be solvent welded. But we did it successfully. That's over 12 years ago.
We will never use another traditional flapper style check valve again. The additional cost for a spring-loaded quiet check valve is well worth it. Its clear body displays its workings and it is quiet.
Since we want to protect our house in the best way possible we continue to do research. Our research reveals Magic Plastics is the most prominent USA quiet check valve manufacturer. Valtera check valves are now made in China. Magic Plastics makes quiet check valves selling under other brand names such as Campbell, Brady, and Zoeller. These brand name quiet check valves are the same and can be trusted for durability and performance. This is why our Top 10 list includes these Quiet Check Valves.
Many of you prefer the traditional flapper style and inline check valve so they are included in the Top 10 list. Do be aware that traditional flapper style and inline check valves leak easier and are noisier.
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-A sump pump check valve is necessary because it keeps already pumped water from flowing back through the pump and causing the motor to pump the save water again. It extends the life of a pump motor.
- A check valve body contains an internal device to stop the water as it flows backwards down the discharge pipe when the motor stops. When the water flows backward and hits the device known as a gate, disc or flap, it makes a loud noise.
- Check valve designs handle the water hammer noise differently. An inline design depends upon the pit walls to absorb the sound. The traditional flapper design does not stop the noise. The quiet check valve relies on a spring to control the noise.
- Connectors are used to attach a check valve to a discharge pipe system. Connectors usually screw, slip on, or are solvent welded.
- The life span of a check valve depends on the type. A quiet check valve lasts longest. Ours is already 10 years old. Our sump pump runs a lot, even when there is no rainstorm. The water table is high.
Key Facts To Remember
- The tension spring of the quiet check valve closes the gate before the water can force it to close. This deafens the water hammer noise tremendously.
- The flapper of traditional check valve closes when the water flows backwards and forces it to shut and thus makes a water hammer noise.
- The disc of the inline check valve closes when the backward flowing water hits it. Since the check valve is located at the pump port, some of the water hammer noise is absorbed by the walls of the pit.
3 Factors To Consider When Choosing A Top 10 Sump Pump Check Valve For Your Sump Pump
The three most important factors to consider when choosing a sump pump check valve are: design, dimensions and connectors.
Design
- Design is a key factor in the durability and noise level created as water flows through and backwards when the pump motor stops. The two basic design types are spring control and gravity closing of check valve gate, swing, disc or flapper when the pump stops and water flows backwards down the pipe back to the sump pit.
- The quiet check valve design uses spring control so the water hammer is under control. The traditional flapper and inline check valve design relies on gravity to force the check valve swing, disc or flapper to slam shut with the rush of water flowing backwards when the pump stops.
- The design of the chamber shape, size and angle of the gate or swing closing plays a role in controlling the water hammer noise, especially for the quiet type check valve. The chamber design of Magic Plastics and Valtera is more effective than the Pump Spy design.
Dimensions
- Dimensions are key to defining the fit of a check valve. Three dimensions are important: the diameter of the check valve body, its port, and its length.
- The diameter of the body varies tremendously between a swing or traditional flapper design and a spring gate design check valve. The swing traditional flapper design check valve has a much smaller body diameter whereas the spring valve body is at least twice as wide because of the chamber size needed for the spring gate to function and control the noise.
- The port at both ends of a check valve are standard for all design types. A check valve functions optimally when the port diameter matches the diameter of the sump pump port and discharge pipe. A smaller valve port than the discharge pipe system or sump pump slows the flow of water and causes the pump motor to work harder. The most common check valve port diameter sizes are 1.25 inches, 1.5 inches, and 2 inches.
- The length of a check valve determines how much discharge pipe to add or remove from the existing pipe system for a secure fit. Cutting of discharge pipe is challenging because correct length is needed for solvent weld ends or rubber slip-over connections. Check valve lengths vary from 5 inches to 13 or more inches.
Connectors
A connector connects the two ends of the check valve to the discharge hose or pipe system. There are three basic ways connectors are attached to the check valve and discharge pipe or hose: slip, solvent weld or screw.
- A slip connector can be removed easily because it is not permanently attached instead it slips over the pipe and is held in place by strong stainless steel clamps.
- A screw-in connector easily screws in and out and is not permanently attached. Inline type check valves use this type of connector.
- Solvent weld permanently primes and cements the check valve end to the discharge pipe. This makes for a very secure connection.
- All three types have pros and cons. The slip connector is easy to install and remove without affecting the check valve ends or the discharge pipe system; however it can also come loose or the rubber material can wear out.
- On the other hand, a solvent weld connector requires the use of primer and cement to glue the connector end to the discharge pipe causing a permanent connection that cannot be separated. Check valve connectors that use a solvent weld usually have a nut that unscrews. The ideal is a true union connector which is specifically designed to be disassembled by unscrewing the nuts in line leaving the tail pieces solvent cemented to the pipe. Such a union allows the check valve body to be removed for repairs, or cleaning, or replacement.
- When it comes to replacing a check valve, the inline type check valve requires removal of the sump pump from the pit because it screws into the pump port. On the other hand, slip and solvent weld check valve connectors are generally installed above the pit so they can be replaced without removing the pump.
The Top 10 Sump Pump Check Valves List By Type
We recommend a sump pump quiet valve because it is quieter and more dependable, but the top 10 list includes some traditional flapper check valves and inline check valves for those of you who prefer that style.
Each of the Top 10 Check Valves in this list includes a link to its respective pros and cons. Feel free look at the entire list first or go directly to the one of special interest.
Quiet Check Valve List with Spring Controlled Gate
Quiet Check Valves with Spring Controlled Gate Pros Cons
1. Campbell B-0823-15C 1-1/2 inch Clear Body, Solvent Weld Union Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Are Made By The Same Manufacturer, Magic Plastics, And Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Campbell B-0823-15C 1-1/2 inch
-Zoeller 30-0041 1-1/2 inch
-Magic Plastics 0823-15C 1-1/2 inch
-Campbell B-0823-20C 2 inch
-Zoeller 30-0043 2 inch
-Magic Plastics 0823-20MC 2 inch
These quiet check valves are exactly the same because they are manufactured by Magic Plastics though they are issued under different brand names. They are truly quiet with their 1/2 pound spring controlled gate. Seeing this style of check valve for the first time will surprise you, because it is big, wide and heavy. It is very well made and will last for years. We installed ours over 10 years ago and is still functioning very well. Its clear body makes it easy to see how it works. The connectors must be primed and cemented to the discharge pipe; however the fluted ring easily screws loose to replace it when necessary.
Pros
- Clear body provides viewing of how it works and if it is not working
- Very well made
- More durable than the traditional flapper style check valve
- Spring-controlled gate eliminates water hammer
- Operates very effectively
- Connectors will not loosen or fail
- Check valve body replaces easily by loosening the union connectors.
- Suitable for vertical or horizontal orientation.
Cons
- Not as easy to install if priming and gluing PVC pipe is not your thing
- Check valve body is wider and takes more room
2. Zoeller 30-0040 1-1/2 inch White Body, Solvent Weld Union Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Are Made By The Same Manufacturer, Magic Plastics, And Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Zoeller 30-0040 1-1/2 inch
-Magic Plastics 0823-15 1-1/2 inch
-Zoeller 30-0042 2 inch
Like other quiet check valves this has a spring loaded gate which controls water hammer very well. When standing next to it during operation it sounds very quiet. Unlike the Zoeller 30-0041, its body is white so its operation cannot be viewed. This valve is well built and weighs 1.5 pounds. Polyvinyl Chloride, PVC is used for the body because it is more flexible and muffles sound better.
Pros
- Very durable demonstrated by its weight
- Spring works well and keeps water hammer quiet
- Fits any 2 inch ABC or PVC pipe
- Versatile direction install: vertical or horizontal
- Its solvent weld union is a very secure connectors
Cons
- White body is not opaque so cannot see valve operation
- Not as budget friendly, but will last longer than a flapper check valve
- Installation requires cutting the discharge pipe which can be challenging to first time installers
3. Zoeller 30-0241 White Body, Slip x Slip Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Are Made By The Same Manufacturer, Magic Plastics, And Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Zoeller 30-0241 1-1/2 inch
-Magic Plastics 0821-15 1-1/2 inch
-Zoeller 30-0243 2 inch
Like other quiet check valves this has a spring loaded gate which controls water hammer very well. When standing next to it during operation it sounds very quiet. Unlike the Zoeller 30-0041, its body is white so its operation cannot be viewed. This valve is well built and weighs 1.5 pounds. Polyvinyl Chloride, PVC is used for the body because it is more flexible and better at muffles sound better.
Pros
- Very durable demonstrated by its weight
- Spring works well and keeps water hammer quiet
- Fits any 1-1/2 inch ABC or PVC pipe
- Versatile direction install: vertical or horizontal
- Its solvent weld union is a very secure connector
Cons
- Valve body not clear so cannot see operation
- Not as budget friendly, but will last longer than a flapper check valve
- Installation requires cutting the discharge pipe which can be challenging to first time installers
4. Valtera 200-CU15 1-1/2 inch Clear Body, Solvent Weld Union Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Valtera 200-CU15 1-1/2 inch
-Valtera 200-CU20 2 inch
This check valve is also a quiet check valve. It is like the other quiet check valves with a swing and a loaded spring. A spring loaded gate definitely prevents water leakage from the backflow of water after the pump shuts off. Its clear body allows one to view its operation. These Quiet check valves are made in China and are not quite as heavy as Magic Plastic made brands. The union connectors can be easily unscrewed and only the body part be removed and replaced when necessary.
Pros
- Action of the check valve can be easily viewed so if the spring does break the issue is easy to see and only the body needs to be replaced
- Much quieter than a non-spring loaded gate check valve
Cons
- More costly, but its dependability gives peace of mind
- Has 1/2 pound spring; however some owners have reported leakage
- Large diameter and length but not as heavy as Magic Plastics made brands
5. Zoeller 30-0181 1-1/2 inch Slip x Slip Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Zoeller 30-0181 1-1/2
-Zoeller 30-0151 1-1/2 inch
-Zoeller 30-0021 2 inch
Zoeller is a very trusted brand. The 30-0181 looks very professional with its black Flexible neoprene slip x slip connectors and green painted metal body. Unlike many check valves these can be installed vertically or horizontally. Stainless steel clamps are included to ensure the connectors are tightened securely to the discharge pipe. It is known for its body flapper that bends over a radius with no sharp 90 degree edges.
Pros
- Looks very professional
- Installation is made easy with slip x slip connectors
- Price is affordable
- Can be installed horizontally or vertically
- Includes metal clamps so no other purchase is necessary
Cons
- Has no controlled spring closing so is louder than the Zoeller 30-0041 model
- Small stones get caught easily then leakage can occur
6. Jackel DJ-545 1-1/2 inch Slip x Slip Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Jackel DJ-545 1-1/2
-Boro Hydro Master 521105 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 inch
-Jackel 2GP-FF 2 inch
-Boro Hydro Master 521106 2 inch
The DJ-545 check valve fits a 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 inch galvanized or DWV Schedule 40 pipe while the Jackel-2GP-FF fits a 2 inch galvanized or DWV Schedule 40 pipe. Its strong and durable ABS body along with its rust proof stainless steel clamps make it a good check valve for a few years of service.
Pros
- Low price for top features
- Easy to install
- Durable ABS material
- Stainless steel clamps are rust proof and strong
Cons
- Noisier than a quiet check valve
- The flapper fails to prevent water backflow after a year or so
7. Superior Pump 99522 1-1/2 inch Slip x Slip Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Superior Pump 99544 1-1/4 inch
-Superior Pump 99522 1-1/2 inch
-Superior Pump 99529 2 inch
Superior Pump makes the 99544 for 1-1/4 inch pipe, the 99522 for the 1-1/2 inch pipe and the 99529 for the 2 inch pipe. These check valves are a favorite of sump pump owners because they are a traditional style check valve made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), an impact-resistant engineering thermoplastic and have the flapper with slip x slip connectors. The weighted flapper is securely sealed until pumped water forces it open. Water is allowed to flow only through the check valve and not backwards. The rubber boot covered ends make installation easy with slip on and clamp action.
Pros
- Budget Friendly
- Slip x slip connectors made it easy to install and replace when needed
- ABS material is strong and stainless steel clamps will not rust
- Small and narrow in diameter
Cons
- More noisy than a quiet check valve
- Weighted flapper keeps flapper closed when not in use and prevents backflow; however the flapper does leak after a year or two. It is not a strong as a spring loaded gate found in the quiet check valve
- After a few years of use it begins to leak causing backward flowing water to return to the pit
8. Pump Spy CV-150 1-1/2 inch Slip x Slip Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Pump Spy CV-150 1-1/4 inch
-Pump-Spy CV-200 2 inch
This check valve is marketed as a quiet check valve; however it does not have a 1/2 pound spring to control the closing of the flapper. Thus it is not as slient as quiet check valves with the 1/2 pound spring. The CV-150 uses the slip x slip connectors which are much easier to install. Its clear plastic body makes it easy to visually confirm that pumped water is moving up through the valve and discharge pipe, that the pipes are not clogged, and the pump in the basin is operational.
Pros
- Easy to install with slip x slip connectors
- Compact design for small spaces
- Fits any 1-1/2 inch ABC or PVC pipe
Cons
- Does not control the water hammer noise as effectively as Campbell, Zoeller and Valtera design
- Slip x slip connectors are not as dependable as solvent welded connectors
Inline Check Valve with Pump Port Screw-in Pros Cons
9. Wayne 66005-WYN 1-1/4 - 1-1/2 inch with Pump Port Screw-in and Slip Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Wayne 66005-WYN 1-1/4 - 1-1/2 inch
-Zoeller 30-238 1-1/2 inch
-Wayne 57028-001 1-1/4 - 1-1/2 inch
These check valves with their screw in connector can be screwed directly into a sump pump port so there is little water that flows backwards to the pump when the motor stops thus reducing the water hammer noise. Its PVC construction is not affected by water minerals and is capable of handling the amount of water pressure generated during sump pump operation. Its adapter makes it possible to use with 1-1/4 inch and 1-1/2 inch discharge piping. And the Wayne 57028-001 also has a slip x slip adapter.
The Zoeller 30-0238 includes two features that make it popular: a screw-in connector and a weep hole. The screw-in connector makes it possible to screw this check valve directly into a sump pump port. This is ideal because the walls of the pit absorb a lot of the water hammer sound. The pre-drilled weep hole prevents air lock which causes a pump to run but pump no water. This type of check valve can only be installed vertically.
Pros
- Hassle free installation, but requires pump to be removed from pit to replace
- Can effectively be used with flexible or non-flexible PVE discharge piping
- Top grade PVC material
- Size is small and takes no additional pit space
Cons
- To replace the check valve the pump must be removed from the pit. Installing the check valve higher in the discharge pipe line requires purchasing a connector with a screw-in connector
- Water hammer sound is not completely muffled like a quiet check valve
- Debris and small stones and wear causes water to leak through the valve after a few years
10. Superior Pump 99555 1-1/4 - 1-1/2 inch with Pump Port Screw-in and Slip Connector
Apply The Pros And Cons Listed Below To The Following Models As Well Because They Have The Same Specifications Except For Connector End Diameter Size and check valve length which is included in the shop section.
-Superior Pump 99555 1-1/4 - 1-1/2 inch
-Superior Pump 99479 1-1/4 - 1-1/2 inch
The Superior Sump Pump Check Valve 99555 is a favorite of home owners who are using a flexible discharge hose. One end of the check valve screws onto the pump port and the other end screws into the flexible discharge pipe. If it is installed with non- flexible PVC discharge pipe system, it is necessary to purchase a connector with one screw-on end and the other a slip-on or solvent weld end. The 99555 is known as a universal valve because it works with any sump pump and fits any 1-1/4 inch or 1-1/2 inch discharge pipe. Its High quality Nitrile-Bruna N seal keeps it from leaking.
Pros
- Works great with flexible discharge piping or PVC discharge Pipe
- Adaptable for 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 inch pipe
- Durable ABS material
- Screws right into pump port to decrease water hammer noise since the noise is muffled in the pit
- Budget friendly
Cons
- Replacement requires pump removal from the pit.
- Another connector is necessary to attach it to a non-flexible PVC discharge pipe
Step 1. Remove small pebbles, sludge and debris from the sump pkt. Small pebbles get caught in the flapper and cause it to leak.
Step 2. Compare the length of the new and old check valve. Determine if PVC pipe needs to be removed or added.
Step 3 Unplug the pump plug from the wall socket. Disconnect the lower check valve connector of the old check valve. The discharge pipe should move freely now.
Step 4. Remove remaining water from above the check valve flapper. Using a yardstick is helpful. Drain the water into a 5 gallon pail.
Step 5 Loosen the old check valve top connector from the discharge pipe. The discharge pipe should move freely now.
Step 6. Check if the bottom discharge pipe attached to the pump is too short or too long. If it is short, add another piece of PVC. If it is too long, measure where the pipe needs to be cut so the new check valve will fit in place.
Step 7. Cut off any excess length of pipe with a hack saw.
Step 8. If a slip x slip connections is used, steps 8 through 15 are not necessary. With a union connection, connect the nut of the union of the new check valve to the bottom pipe. Prime and glue it in place.
Step 9. Before premanently priming and glueing anything, do a dry run to see if the new check valve fits in the space between the top and bottom of discharge pipe system.
Step 10. Do a dry run to see if the check valve fits in between the top and bottom of the discharge pipe system. Keep in mind how the connectors attach.
Step 11. Make sure the check valve chamber is placed in the right direction. Find the arrow on the check valve chamber. Make sure it points up. The gate or flapper should be placed so the water can push it open. The water flows from the pit through the check valve and to its predetermined location.
Step 12. After doing a dry fitting, prime the piping and fittings.
Step 13. Glue fittings one by one.
Step 14. Hold fittings until they set.
Step 15. Screw the check valve in place.
Step 16. After hand tightening, use a wrench to tighten a little bit more so there will be no leaks.
Step 17 Plug the pump back into the electrical outlet. As the pump runs, watch for leaks. Check for unusual running water sounds or shooting water sounds when the pump shuts off. If none, your project is done!! Congratulations!
Common Questions Asked About Sump Pump Check Valves
Do you really need a check valve for a sump pump?
A check valve for a sump pump is necessary if the goal is to prevent premature motor wear. A sump pump motor turns an impeller so water is propelled from a sump pit through a discharge pipe and away to its intended location. When the motor stops, gravity takes over and pulls the water in the pipe backwards. The water must go somewhere. A check valve stops it from emptying back into the pit and requiring the same water to be pumped again. Pumping the same water multiple times causes motor overload, pit overflow and additional electricity usage.
What is the best sump pump check valve?
The best sump pump check valve is a spring controlled clear quiet sump pump check valve. It allows viewing of its activity; its spring controls the closing of the gate deafening the water hammer sound and its union connectors make it very secure, reliable, efficient and quiet.
What are the most reliable sump pump check valves?
The most reliable sump pump check valves are those with a one-half pound spring that closes a disc that slants inside the check valve body. The spring controls the closing of the disc, also known as a gate, to deafen the water hammer noise and effectively keeps the disc securely shut allowing no water to seep under the disc. A check valve with a union type connection also prevents water seepage and connection failure because it is solvent welded in place.
Where is the best place to install a sump pump check valve?
The best place to install a sump pump check valve is vertically in the discharge pipe directly above the pit. For less water hammer and future access its height should be less than twenty-four inches from the top of the pit so there is less water back flow when the pump stops. Placement should also be below any existing Wye connections to prevent water re-circulation.
Traditional Flapper Check Valves do not have a 1/2 pound spring to control flappers thus they allow more water hammer than a Quiet Check Valve. These check valves usually use Slip x Slip Connections for easy installation.
Inline Screw-in Check Valves screw directly into the sump pump port. Water hammer noise is somewhat absorbed by the sump pump pit walls. They are easy to screw-in, but the sump pump must be removed from the pit to replace them.
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