Understanding the Purpose of a Sump Pump Check Valve
A sump pump is a critical component of a home’s basement waterproofing system. It helps to prevent basement flooding by removing water that collects in a sump pit. One important part of a sump pump system is the check valve. But what exactly is a sump pump check valve and what is its purpose? Let’s find out.
How Does a Sump Pump Check Valve Work?
A sump pump check valve is a small device that is usually installed on the discharge pipe of a sump pump system. It is designed to allow water to flow out of the sump pump and away from your home, but it prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit. The check valve uses a flapper or a ball mechanism to control the flow of water.
Preventing the Backflow of Water
One of the main purposes of a sump pump check valve is to prevent the backflow of water into the sump pit. Without a check valve, water that is pumped out of the pit could flow back down into the pit when the pump shuts off. This can cause the sump pump to turn on again unnecessarily and lead to increased wear and tear on the pump.
Reducing Pump Cycling
By preventing backflow, a sump pump check valve helps to reduce pump cycling. Pump cycling refers to the frequent turning on and off of the sump pump. When water flows back into the sump pit after the pump has turned off, the pump will sense the rise in water level and turn on again. This constant cycling can put unnecessary strain on the pump motor and decrease its lifespan.
Maintaining Pressure in the Discharge Pipe
Another purpose of a sump pump check valve is to maintain pressure in the discharge pipe. When the pump is running and pushing water out of the pit, the check valve prevents the water from flowing back into the pit. This ensures that the pump can continue to effectively remove water from the basement and prevent flooding.