It is important to correctly choose and install a check valve to help ensure a trouble-free water system. Check valves should be properly sized to the pump's flow and pressure conditions. Flow velocities should not exceed 10 feet per second (fps), and 7 fps is a more conservative target maximum to avoid excessive pressure drop through the valve. The pressure rating of the check valve should exceed the maximum pressure output of the pump. Prior to installing a check valve, be certain its mechanism is operating properly. Be sure to install the valve with the flow arrow pointing in the right direction.
The materials of construction are an important consideration in ground water installations. Because conventional brass contains lead, it is against the law to use standard brass check valves in potable water well systems. Use no-lead bronze or brass, plastic, ductile iron or stainless steel.