check valves?

[lifeform]

Hi, I have two return pumps in my sump and was wondering if I should use check valves? Anyone use check valves? Thanks

 

[james3370]

i think the general concensus is it's not IF they fail, but WHEN.....

plan you sump to hold any water that will drain in a pump failure/power outage &/or use anti-siphon holes on the return lines to break the siphon when the pump(s) stop

 

[lifeform]

thanks for quick response.

 

[billdogg]

I could not agree more. Ball or gate valves yes - on the returns to tank only. Drains should never be restricted in any way

 

[james3370]

btw....i'm not saying don't run one at all....i think they can be useful

what i am saying is don't run the water level in the sump 1-2" from the top & expect the check valve to stop a flood...that's just waiting for catastrophie

 

[Rouselb]

I have used 2 different styles of check valves and they work at first, but after some time goes by, they dont close until the water really slows down. Its not really worth it IMO. Just drill a small stop hole at the top of your tubing and you should be fine.

The first check valve was a solder in place type (PVC cement). The second one was a rubber 2 piece that used hose clamps to hold it on. The second did work better, but neither worked after a year.