What happens if a check valve fails?

Author: Josephine Graham  |  Last update: Monday, September 29, 2025

Check valves, also called non-return valves, are devices through which fluid flows in only one direction. They function to prevent the reversal of fluid flow (backflow) in the system to which they are applied. Therefore a well check valve failure may result in fluid flowing back into the well.

What happens when the check valve goes bad?

Swing check valves use a hinged swinging disc to block and control the movement of fluid in a system. As they are used to prevent the reverse flow of fluids or gases, any failure can lead to leakage, loss of pressure, contamination, overflow, and, in the most severe cases, complete system failure.

What happens without a check valve?

You must have a check valve in most cases because when the pump shuts off there's water in the line that will drain back into pump basin and activate the pump again, then pump stops and the cycle repeats. This will eventually burn up your pump.

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 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.

Why your check valve is losing the prime and how to prevent it from happening. #tjyoursprinklerguy

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 much does a plumber charge to replace a valve?

The average cost to replace a main water shut-off valve is $500, but most homeowners pay between $375 and $600 for the service.

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.

What happens when a backflow valve fails?

If your backflow device is not working properly, it can lead to serious problems, including the contamination of your drinking water. That's why it's important to know how to identify when your backflow device is not working properly and to take steps to fix the problem.

Are check valves repairable?

If there is damage to the valve's body, such as severe rust or corrosion, the valve needs to be replaced. However, if damage or wear is only found on internal parts, it's possible to replace the parts rather than the entire valve.

What is the difference between a check valve and a backflow preventer?

Like a backflow preventer, a check valve stops media from flowing through it in the reverse direction. Check valves, however, do not offer the degree of protection that backflow preventers do and therefore are not suitable for protecting drinking water sources.

What is the alternative to a check valve?

Like a check valve, a backflow preventer is a device that ensures water only travels in one direction. Its sole job is to keep water flowing from the water main to a building's pipes.

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.

What happens when a valve fails?

Effect: The valve becomes difficult to operate, or it may become entirely immobile. In some cases, this can lead to failure in controlling the flow of fluid or gas, causing system inefficiency or potential hazards, especially in critical applications.

Can a bad check valve cause water hammer?

In industrial settings, water hammer can be caused by improper valve selection, unsuitable valve locations (swing check valves in vertical pipe runs), or poor maintenance.

How much does a new check valve cost?

Professional work costs between $100 and $400, while the gadget itself costs $35 to $600. A backwater or check valve should cost between $70 and $250, including installation.

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.

Will a check valve stop a fire?

Once the alarm check valves are activated, they will allow water to flow through the system, engaging the sprinkler system as and where needed in order to suppress a potential fire.

How long should a valve replacement take?

DURING THE SURGICAL HEART VALVE REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE

The procedure varies from patient to patient, lasting a minimum of two hours and often longer. During this time, you are asleep under general anesthesia.

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...

How important is a check valve?

A check valve, also known as a non-return valve or one-way valve, allows the fluid to flow in only one direction. It is designed to prevent backflow, the reverse flow of fluids in a pipeline, and ensure the unidirectional fluid flow in the piping system.

How long does it take a plumber to change a valve?

Most shut-off valves are installed quickly. Newer ball valves can be installed in under an hour. However, the length of time the job takes depends on the condition of the old valve and the design of your plumbing system.

How much does it cost to install a sewer check valve?

It is a much simpler installation, but must be done correctly and it usually requires repositioning your house trap and fresh air inlet. A typical sewer check valve installation will cost between $3,500.00 and $4,000.00, which typically also includes a new house trap and access pit.

Is it easy to replace a valve?

A threaded valve screws directly onto the water supply line and is easy to replace. In a compression connection, the valve screws into a hexagonal nut that fits around the supply line. The most difficult type to replace is a sweat valve, which is soldered onto the supply pipe.

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