Properly managing water flow helps protect your home's plumbing system and can improve efficiency. Explore the range of check valves at Ace Hardware, from Campbell, Homewerks and other brands designed to help maintain pressure and direction across residential and commercial water lines.
Brass Check Valves for Water Supply and High-Pressure Lines
Brass check valves are often used on residential and commercial water supply lines where pressure and temperature are factors. Available options may include:
- Spring loaded valves: Designed to use a spring to close the valve when flow stops, which can help reduce water hammer on pump discharge and irrigation lines.
- Swing check valves: Typically feature a hinged flap that opens with water pressure, well suited to gravity flow and lower-pressure applications.
- Foot valves: Often installed at the bottom of a suction line or well intake with a strainer to help keep the pump primed and debris out of the system.
- Backflow preventers and double checks: Intended to help reduce the risk of contaminated water flowing back into potable lines, water meters and irrigation systems.
Materials typically include red brass, yellow brass and stainless steel, with FNPT, MIP, compression and push-to-connect ends to match common plumbing connections.
Plastic, PVC and ABS Check Valves for Drainage and Sump Systems
For sump pump discharge, sewage and general drainage, PVC and ABS options are often preferred for their corrosion resistance. Selections typically include quiet check valves, which are designed to help dampen the "thump" caused by the valve closing after a sump pump cycle. For sewage lines, sewage check and backwater valves can help reduce the risk of waste flowing back into the home during heavy rain or system backups. Connection types may include slip, solvent weld and threaded ends in sizes that typically range from 1/4 in. up to 6 in. Browse related valves for whole-system planning, including ball valves and shut-off valves.
Choosing the Right Check Valve Type
The chart below compares common check valve categories by material and primary use to help narrow the decision.
| Valve type | Common materials | Primary use case |
|---|
| Brass check | Brass, stainless steel | Potable water supply, irrigation, high-pressure lines |
| PVC / ABS check | PVC, ABS, rubber | Sump pump discharge, sewage, drainage |
| Specialty fittings | Rubber, ABS | Pump installation and pipe sizing adapters |
Sump Pump Accessories and Air Relief Valves
Specialty fittings can support a cleaner pump installation. Sump sticks and rubber boot sleeves are often used to bridge 1-1/4 in. and 1-1/2 in. discharge connections, and quick connect pipe kits are designed for compatible basement water management systems. Pair these with other pumps and pump parts for a complete setup. For air relief, small threaded brass snifter valves in 1/8 in. and 1/4 in. are often used on well pump discharge lines and pressure tanks to help maintain the air-to-water ratio automatically.
How Do You Choose the Right Check Valve for a Sump Pump?
Consider the diameter of the discharge pipe, the connection type and the noise level of the unit. Many homeowners prefer quiet check valves, which are designed to help minimize the sound heard when the pump stops running. Confirm flow direction with the arrow on the valve body before installation.
When Is a Brass Check Valve Preferred Over Plastic?
Brass is typically preferred for pressurized potable water supply, irrigation and applications where the valve may see higher temperatures. PVC and ABS are usually the better fit for sump, sewage and drainage lines where corrosion resistance and solvent-weld connections matter more than pressure rating.
Shop Check Valves Near You at Ace Hardware
Online shopping makes it easy to compare brass, PVC and ABS check valves by size, closure type and connection before checking out. In store, your neighborhood Ace team can help confirm the right valve for your sump pump, irrigation or water supply project. Find availability and shop check valves near you at your local Ace.
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