Do I need more than one check valve in a submersible pump system?

Yes! We recommend that you install multiple check valves. The information below explains the proper placement and how to determine how many check valves should be incorporated into the system.

Many submersible pumps have a check valve built into the pump; this is the first check valve in the system. The second check valve should be placed above the pump and no more than 25 feet above the water pumping level (lowest pump down level) in the well. This ensures that if the first check valve at the pump fails, the second check valve in the system will hold the vacuum below it.

The third and any additional check valves should be placed at a maximum of every 200 feet in the drop pipe as permitted by depth of the pump setting. Many well codes mandate that an additional check valve is installed above ground. This final check valve is commonly positioned near the pressure tank.

For example, let’s look at a 500-foot-deep pump setting with a pumping level (drawn down level) of 450 feet. The pipe column will have a check valve positioned at the pump discharge, followed by another at 425 feet deep. Above the installation of these two valves there should be an additional check valves installed every 200 feet on the drop pipe. This system requires 5 check valves, positioned at 500 feet, 425 feet, 225 feet and 25 feet deep. The fifth and last check valve, is positioned at the surface.

DIAGRAM COMING SOON!

NOTE: The ideal installation location for the first check valve is recommended to be installed approximately 20-25 feet above the submersible pump. A valve in this position will be subject to a less turbulent flow.

Additional Resources:

For more information on when, where and why to install multiple check valves, the link below, published by Flomatic, is an excellent resource.

https://www.flomatic.com/news/submersible-check-valves-installation-when-where-why/