How to know if a well check valve is bad?

Author: Mr. Cody Stoltenberg MD  |  Last update: Saturday, December 13, 2025

For example, check valves that are starting to fail will vibrate or make a noise indicating that the valve has broken. A strange noise can also be a sign of 'water hammer' which is a high-pressure surge that occurs when the fluid comes to a stop or changes direction, often causing the disc to slam into the valve.

What are the symptoms of a bad check valve?

Common check valve problems include noise (water hammer), vibration/chattering, reverse flow, sticking, leakage, missing internals, component wear or damage. However, it is worth mentioning that normally the real cause is the wrong size, spring, and/or style for the check valve application.

How do you know if you need a new check valve?

Signs It Might Be Time For an Early Replacement
  1. Water hammer: You hear a tapping or hammering sound, or the pipes are vibrating.
  2. There is leaking coming from anywhere on the valve, even as small as a pinhole or as big as a full-flow spray.
  3. It doesn't pass annual testing.
  4. Your water pressure is lower than normal.

How do you test a check valve?

This test, also known as a bubble test, is usually performed in a valve shop by applying air to the downstream side of the check valve while the upstream side is submerged in water; then, the number of bubbles is counted and the data is compared to specific acceptance criteria.

Do check valves get clogged?

If you notice that your shower isn't dispersing hot or cold water, it may mean that your shower check valves are clogged. This video will show you how to clean them and restore the performance of your shower. For more home advice, please visit our help center: https://support.signat...

Common signs of a faulty foot valve or check valve💧💧💧

How do I know if my well check valve is bad?

For example, check valves that are starting to fail will vibrate or make a noise indicating that the valve has broken. A strange noise can also be a sign of 'water hammer' which is a high-pressure surge that occurs when the fluid comes to a stop or changes direction, often causing the disc to slam into the valve.

How do you know if your valves are blocked?

These are the most common symptoms of heart valve disease: Chest pain. Palpitations caused by irregular heartbeats. Fatigue.

How to unstick a well check valve?

There are ways to release a jammed check valve, such as Tapping the valve body or Applying penetrating oil.

How often should a check valve be replaced?

While some check valves may last for many years without needing replacement, others may require more frequent maintenance or replacement due to wear and tear, corrosion, or failure.

How do you fix a bad check valve?

Step 1: Using a vice or an adjustable wrench, screw off and remove the check valve cap. Step 2: Once you get the cap removed, inspect the O-ring, cap and spring inside for any damage, wear or debris. Replace the spring as it is inexpensive and easy to do.

What is the life expectancy of a check valve?

A metal disc pivots on a hinge or trunnion to prevent reverse flow. Most larger-scale check valves use this design due to their simplicity. With a life span of five to seven years, these valves are often a component that needs to be replaced frequently.

How can you tell if you have a bad valve?

5 Signs You're Having Valve Train Issues
  • Blue smoke is coming out of the tailpipe. This can be caused when a worn valve allows oil to leak into the combustion chamber.
  • Engine is “missing” while idling. ...
  • Engine is backfiring. ...
  • There is a “clatter” in your engine. ...
  • There is a rattling or “tapping” sound in the engine.

How much does it cost to replace a check valve?

Costs to replace a check valve

The cost to replace a check valve varies widely depending on the type of check valve, location, and service type. On average, expect to pay between $100 and $400 for a professionally installed replacement check valve. On the other hand, the valve itself costs $35 to $600.

What are the symptoms of a faulty valve?

Common symptoms of heart valve disease are:
  • feeling breathless.
  • chest pain.
  • feeling weak or dizzy.
  • discomfort in your chest.
  • swollen ankles and feet.
  • being more tired than usual.
  • a fluttering or pounding feeling in your chest or neck (known as palpitations).

Do check valves need maintenance?

A properly functioning check valve allows liquid to flow in one direction and prevents reverse flow in the opposite direction. Proper installation and preventative valve maintenance are necessary to keep check valves in peak condition.

Does a check valve reduce water pressure?

When water passes through a check valve, it encounters this resistance, which can cause a pressure drop, reducing the overall flow rate. The amount of reduction depends on several factors, including the design and size of the valve.

What happens when well check valve fails?

When the check valve stops working, it is no longer able to prevent the well's pressure tank from sending water back down into the well as the pressure builds up. As a result, the pressure switch detects that water pressure inside the tank is dropping, so it turns the pump on again to pump in more water.

How do you know if a valve needs to be replaced?

Is it time to replace your shower valve?
  1. Dripping or Leaking. A leaking shower valve is one of the more common signs that it could need to be replaced. ...
  2. Low Water Pressure. ...
  3. Inconsistent Water Temperature. ...
  4. Difficulty Turning the Valve. ...
  5. Age of the Valve.

How do you know if you have a bad check valve?

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 do you test a well check valve?

First, close the inlet valve and open the outlet valve. Then, open the inlet valve and allow the system to fill with fluid. Once the system is full, close the inlet valve and open the outlet valve. The check valve should prevent any fluid from flowing back into the system.

Will a well pump work without a check valve?

Without a check valve, water would flow out of the pump and back into the well when it shuts off. The pump would be empty of water and unable to work without a user manually priming the pump.

What is usually the first indication of a valve problem?

However, people who have valve disease may never notice any symptoms. It's important to note that symptoms of valve disease, such as chest pain or palpitations, fatigue, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath and swollen ankles, feet or abdomen can be signs of several conditions.

What are the symptoms of a bad valve?

Here are a few of the symptoms:
  • Popping/Ticking Noise. The first sign of faulty valve seals in your car is popping noises. ...
  • Blue Exhaust Smoke. ...
  • Excessive Oil Consumption. ...
  • Rough Idling. ...
  • Cold Engine. ...
  • External oil leaks. ...
  • Loss of Power. ...
  • Increased Fuel Economy.

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