How to Test Check Valves
By preventing the backflow of water once the pump or water supply has been shut off, a check valve lightens the load on a water pump, prevents overspill and even guard against gray water contamination. Check valves can be one of the most important elements of a plumbing system.
Because of their importance, checking and testing these valves helps ensure that the consequences of a broken check valve are never realized.
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Shut off the water supply to the check valve. Follow the water line backwards (the flow of water is indicated by an arrow on the check valve) and switch off the next valve. Wait 15 to 20 minutes for the water pressure to subside.
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Check the valve for debris by tapping its side with the handle of a screwdriver. A rattling sound means the check valve is fine, but inconsistent grinding or squeaking indicates that the valve is stuck on some form of debris. If the check valve is of the 90 degree (right angle) variety, remove the top of the valve (use the channel locks to turn the top of the valve to the left) and check the inside of the valve directly. There should be a dropping ball-pin on the inside, but nothing else. Replace the top of the valve.
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Stand near the valve and have an assistant turn the water supply on for five seconds before quickly shutting it off again. Put your hand on the valve and place your ear near to it. If you feel or hear any water running, it is a sign that the valve's seal is leaking. Most of the time, however, you will hear and feel a gentle "click" sound as the valve closes and water will cease running through the valve as the water is shut off.
Things You Will Need
- Channel locks
- Plastic handled screwdriver
Tip
Check valves are designed to interrupt the flow of air or water when their system is not activated. Testing either type of valve (air or water) can be done with the same principles as above: turn the system on, then off and observe whether the valve is interrupting flow.
Writer Bio
C. Paul Martin began writing in 2003 while studying at Christendom College, Va. He specializes in theological/ideological history and socio-historical topics such as the Reformation, the Crusades and the ideology of revolutions. Martin holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in history and theology, and is pursuing his Master of Arts in history at National University in California.
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