How do I know if my sump pump check valve is bad?

How to Tell if the Check Valve is Bad

1. Check for leaky or moisture on seals, connections and valve.
2. Fill the put 1/4 to 1/2 with water and see if it drains.
3. Watch for water backwash into your basin during testing and rainstorms.

What happens when a sump pump check valve fails?

A Sump Pump Check valve is used to keep water out of the pump basin when it is shut off. If this fails, the water will wash back into the basin and create a heavy amount of wear and tear on the pump itself. If the water begins to wash back into the basin, you shorten the life of your sump pump dramatically.

How do you know if your check valve is bad?

Symptoms of a Failing Check Valve For example, failing check valves will start to vibrate and even lose some internal parts when problems begin to arise. Other symptoms of check valve failure include reverse flow and excessive component wear and damage. Check valves will also emit noises as they start to break down.

How do you test a sump pump check valve?

Make note of exactly where the leaks are occurring on the check valve. Wait until the pump shuts off. Look in the sump pit to see if water leaks from the intake pipe. If it does, this can be a sign that the check valve’s internal valve is failing.

How often should a sump pump check valve be replaced?

every 7 to 10 years
On average, sump pumps need to be replaced every 7 to 10 years.

Can a sump pump check valve get clogged?

Sump pump check valved may also be blocked by debris that may have passed the filtering unit. Sump pumps are able to clean debris by themselves but some have to be cleaned by hand. Check valve failure can put a lot of stress on your sump pump and result in more severe consequences.

What does a bad check valve sound like?

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 much does it cost to replace a sump pump check valve?

Prices between $150 and $300 are on the low end of sump pump replacement, and the more you add to your project, the more likely the total price is to stretch out to $500 or $600.

How long does a check valve last on a sump pump?

5 to 7 years
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.

When should a check valve be replaced?

Look for signs of corrosion, rust or mineral build-up. Replace the valve if there are extensive leaks or worn/broken pieces. Open & close the valves to make sure they aren’t seizing. Inspect pressure & temperature of fluid flowing through.

How often should a check valve be replaced?

While typical component lifespans are application specific, manufacturers suggest metal and plastic check valves should be replace every 5-7 years whereas check valves manufactured from rubber may remain fully serviceable for up to 35-50 years.

How many years does a sump pump last?

about 10 years
Like other appliances and equipment in your home, your sump pump won’t last forever. Averaging about 10 years, you might not notice your sump pump has malfunctioned until it has stopped working.

What can you do to prevent sump pump failure?

The most common cause for sump pump failure is an electrical power outage. To prevent this, have a backup generator that can be manually activated. In the case that your primary pump mechanically fails, though, a generator cannot help in this situation.

Why must the discharge of a pump have a check valve?

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.

What is a quiet check valve?

A Quiet Check Valve is a great solution when extremely quiet operation is desired. Quiet Check Valve offer all the features as the standard check valve, with the addition of a spring-loaded hinged flapper mechanism which forces the flapper to fully close against fluid flow as the pump shuts down.