What Is a Check Valve in Plumbing?
August 25, 2025
What Is a Check Valve in Plumbing? A Complete Guide for Homeowners
Every great plumbing system is like a well-choreographed dance—each part moves in sync to keep water flowing smoothly. But what happens when water tries to move in the wrong direction? That’s where a check valve steps in. If you’ve ever wondered, What is a check valve in plumbing?, this guide will break it down in simple, clear terms. At Riser Plumbing and Drain, we believe homeowners should understand the key parts of their plumbing systems, so you know how to protect your home and prevent costly repairs.
What Is a Check Valve in Plumbing?
At its core, a check valve is a one-way gate for water. It allows flow in one direction but immediately shuts if water tries to reverse. These small but powerful devices are installed in pipes to prevent contamination and damage to your systems. Simply put, a check valve is your plumbing’s silent guard to avoid backflow and to protect your clean water supply.
Riser Plumbing and Drain frequently installs and maintains check valves because they are essential for keeping plumbing systems safe and efficient.
Why Check Valves Are Essential in Plumbing
So why is the check valve so important? The main reason is to prevent backflow. Backflow occurs when contaminated water or other media flows backward into your clean water supply. Without proper backflow preventers like check valves, you risk water contamination, reduced pressure, and potential system failures.
At Riser Plumbing and Drain, we’ve seen how installing the right valves can save homeowners from expensive costs associated with water damage or plumbing contamination.
Common Types of Check Valves
Not all check valves are the same—different applications require different designs. Some of the most widely used include:
- Ball check valves – Use a ball that moves to open and close the disc based on the direction of water flow.
- Swing check valves – Feature a swinging disc that allows forward flow and shuts against reverse flow.
- Lift check valves – Work vertically, with a spring or disc that lifts as water pressure increases.
- Double check valves – Often used in backflow preventers for added security in systems.
Riser Plumbing and Drain helps homeowners choose the right valve depending on their piping system and needs.
How a Ball Check Valve Works
A ball check valve is one of the simplest designs, yet highly effective. When water pressure pushes forward, the ball lifts to allow flow. If the flow reverses, gravity and pressure push the ball back into place, sealing the valve shut.
These are common in sump pump systems, where Riser Plumbing and Drain often installs them to prevent backflow in basements and crawl spaces.
Swing Check Valves Explained
A swing check valve operates like a door that swings open and shut. When water moves forward, the disc swings out of the way. When the system tries to push water backward, the disc swings back to block reverse flow.
This design is simple, durable, and widely used in residential piping. Riser Plumbing and Drain often recommends swing check valves for homeowners who need reliable and long-lasting solutions.
Role of Lift Check Valves in Plumbing Systems
Lift check valves use pressure to raise a disc or spring when water is flowing correctly. If the flow stops or reverses, gravity and pressure push the disc back down, sealing the valve.
These are often installed in high-pressure systems, making them valuable for certain applications. Our team at Riser Plumbing and Drain installs and services lift check valves when customers need added reliability in specialized setups.
Double Check Valves and Backflow Preventers
When you need maximum protection, double check valves are the answer. These valves are often installed in backflow preventers to ensure that contaminated water never mixes with your clean supply.
For homes with irrigation systems or a higher risk of contamination, Riser Plumbing and Drain strongly advises installing double check assemblies. They’re an investment in both safety and quality.
Applications of Check Valves in Plumbing
Where exactly do these valves prevent problems in your home? Some typical applications include:
- Protecting sump pump systems.
- Preventing irrigation water from contaminating drinking water.
- Securing municipal water connections.
- Maintaining quality and pressure in indoor piping.
At Riser Plumbing and Drain, we carefully evaluate your system to determine where check valves will provide the most benefit.
How Check Valves Save You Costs in the Long Run
While check valves might seem small, their role in preventing backflow makes them invaluable. A failed system can lead to contaminated water, pipe damage, and higher repair costs. By installing reliable check valves, Riser Plumbing and Drain helps homeowners avoid unnecessary expenses while ensuring their plumbing runs smoothly.
Trust Riser Plumbing and Drain for Check Valve Expertise
Understanding what is a check valve in plumbing is just the first step. The real value comes from choosing the right valve and ensuring it’s installed correctly. At Riser Plumbing and Drain, we bring years of experience, high-quality products, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether it’s a ball check, swing check, or lift check valve, we ensure your system is built to last.
Keep Your Plumbing Protected with Riser Plumbing and Drain
Don’t wait for backflow or system failure to remind you of the importance of a check valve. Let Riser Plumbing and Drain safeguard your home with expert installation, maintenance, and reliable plumbing solutions. Call us today to schedule your service and keep your water supply flowing clean and strong.
Learn how to tighten a toilet seat safely without damaging the bowl. Follow expert tips from Riser Plumbing and Drain.
Learn how a plumber finds a water leak underground with expert methods by Riser Plumbing and Drain. Reliable and non-invasive solutions.
Learn how often you should drain your water heater and why Riser Plumbing and Drain is your go-to expert for lasting system performance.
Discover what polybutylene plumbing is and how Riser Plumbing and Drain can help you replace it with safe, modern solutions.
Discover what a journeyman plumber is, how they’re trained, and why Riser Plumbing and Drain is your trusted St. Paul expert.
Did you know that using a dishwasher can actually save more water than washing dishes by hand? Many homeowners believe dishwashers wastewater, but modern models are designed to deliver sparkling clean dishes efficiently. But how much water does a dishwasher use, and what factors affect its efficiency? At Riser Plumbing, we believe in helping homeowners make informed decisions about their water usage. Whether you're considering a newer dishwasher or want to maximize the efficiency of your current one, understanding water consumption is essential. Let's break it down by cycle, model, and efficiency factors. How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use on Average? The amount of water a dishwasher uses varies depending on the model and cycle. Older dishwashers could use as much as 10-15 gallons per cycle, while newer ENERGY STAR models use as little as 3-5 gallons per cycle. If you’re trying to save water, upgrading to a high-efficiency dishwasher can make a significant difference. At Riser Plumbing, we can help you choose and install a dishwasher that aligns with your water conservation goals. Dishwasher Cycles and Their Water Usage Each cycle in a dishwasher serves a different purpose, and some require more water than others. Here's a general breakdown: Normal Cycle – Uses 3-5 gallons, balancing efficiency and cleanliness. Heavy-Duty Cycle – Can use 7-10 gallons, perfect for greasy or heavily soiled dishes. Eco Mode – Uses the least amount of water, often around 2-4 gallons. Quick Wash – Saves time but may use more water to compensate for the shorter cycle. If you want to save water, choosing the right cycle based on your load size is crucial. Riser Plumbing can provide expert recommendations to ensure you're getting the best performance from your dishwasher. Does a Dishwasher Use Less Water Than Hand Washing? Many people assume washing by hand is the better choice, but studies show otherwise. Washing a whole load of dishes by hand can use up to 27 gallons, while a high-efficiency dishwasher only needs 3-5 gallons. By using your dishwasher, you not only save water but also energy, making it a win-win for your home and the environment. At Riser Plumbing, we help homeowners make smart choices to enhance their home's efficiency. How Newer Dishwashers Help Save Water If you’re still using an older model, you might be wasting gallons of water daily. Newer dishwashers come with features like: Soil Sensors – Adjust the water based on how dirty your dishes are. Efficient Spray Arms – Ensures better coverage while using less water. ENERGY STAR Certification – Guarantees energy and water savings. Upgrading your appliance? Riser Plumbing provides expert installation services to ensure everything is properly set up for maximum efficiency. Benefits of Using a Dishwasher Over Hand Washing Using a dishwasher isn't just about saving water—it also offers other benefits: Time-Saving – Load your dishes, press start, and walk away. More Hygienic – Dishwashers reach higher temperatures than hand washing. Eco-Friendly – Uses less energy and water, reducing your environmental impact. Want to learn more about the benefits of dishwashers? Contact Riser Plumbing for expert advice on improving your kitchen efficiency. Tips to Maximize Your Dishwasher’s Efficiency To get the best performance and save water, follow these simple tips: Run Full Loads Only – Avoid halfloads to maximize efficiency. Scrape, Don’t Rinse – Modern dishwashers clean well without pre-rinsing. Choose Eco Mode – Helps save water and energy. Maintain Your Dishwasher – Regularly check for leaks or clogs. At Riser Plumbing, we provide maintenance services to keep your dishwasher running efficiently year-round. Can a Dishwasher Affect Your Water Bill? Absolutely! A high-efficiency dishwasher can save hundreds of gallons of water annually, which translates to lower utility bills. If your water bill is unexpectedly high, a leaking or inefficient dishwasher could be the culprit. Riser Plumbing can inspect your system and recommend solutions to save water and reduce waste. Make Every Drop Count with Riser Plumbing Your dishwasher can be a powerful tool for saving water—if used efficiently. Understanding how much water a dishwasher uses and making smart choices can help reduce waste, lower bills, and improve performance. At Riser Plumbing, we’re committed to helping homeowners achieve efficiency in their kitchens. Whether you need repairs, installation, or advice, our team is here to provide top-quality services. Contact Riser Plumbing today to learn more and ensure your home runs at peak efficiency.
Wondering how long does it take for hot water to come back after a shower? Learn why delays happen & how Riser Plumbing can help.
If you're dealing with persistent drain clogs or sewer backups in Enumclaw, WA, Riser Plumbing and Drain offers expert rooter services to clear even the toughest blockages. Using advanced tools like video inspections, drain augers, and hydro-jetting, our team ensures your plumbing runs smoothly. Don’t wait for small issues to turn into major problems—contact Riser Plumbing and Drain today for fast, reliable service!
Regular water heater maintenance is essential for efficiency and longevity, especially in Bonney Lake, WA. Simple steps like checking the temperature, flushing the tank, and inspecting the anode rod can prevent costly breakdowns. If your unit is over 8–12 years old, making noise, leaking, or producing rusty water, it may be time for a replacement. Riser Plumbing and Drain offers expert maintenance and installation to keep your home running smoothly, schedule your service today!