Solenoid Operated Valve

[Squidhead9]

I'm plumbing a Zero Edge, and my biggest concern is if the check valves ever fail during a power outage. I'm thinking about putting solenoid operated valves on my return as an electrical backup to the mechanical check valves. The standard one inch irrigation valves look like they would work fine in terms of size, flow capacity etc. and there some where the inner parts are all plastic. However I don't know if they will hold up with the solenoid turned on 24/7.

There are one or two that look like they are designed for aqarium use, but they are about ten times the price of the irrigation valves. From what I can see it doesn't look like they are any different except that they run directly off 120 AC instead of requiring a 24 V transformer. Anybody out there have any thoughts (or better yet some smart guy with skills who has actual knowledge) on this topic.

 

[wtac]

I'd be weary of using the ones for irrigation as they are made to deal with "chemically neutral solutions" which SW is not. Also, the solenoid are built for short term energizing (open) and from experience from my lawn irrigation system, the Orbit irrigation solenoids fried when they were open all day when I forgot to put the cover back on and the cats like to play with the buttons...sheesh.

I would call Hayward about their union actuated valves about long term energization of the solenoid. Also they are used in commercial/industrial applications as the body and plunger mechanism are made of materials suited for a chemically harsh environment. If it's going to suit your needs, the you will have to ask yourself if the price tag is worth the investment. IIRC they are in the $500-700 pricerange.

HTH

 

[mike660r]

You also have calcification concerns to consider. The valves will jamb on you eventually.

 

[theredben]

The main problem with your idea is that regular irrigation valves will not work. They require are pressure operated, and will not work to operate an overflow.

I think your best bet would be a level switch to shut off the pump when the sump level drops.

 

[dots]

Plumb between two unions: two check valves in series, on top of which a ball valve.

Close the ball valve, pull out the check valves that are between the unions and clean every quarter.

Between the regular maintenance and two check valves, you shouldn't have any problems.