3 min read
23 Feb
23Feb

If you're like most people, you don't think much about the plumbing in your home. But the truth is, your plumbing plays a vital role in keeping your home safe and functional. One of the most critical components of your plumbing is the non return valve.

Non return valves are an essential part of your home's plumbing system. They prevent water from flowing back into your home, which can cause severe damage. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at non return valves: what they are, how they work, and the benefits of having one in your home. We'll also show you how to install a non return valve and offer some tips for maintaining it.

Introduction


A non return valve also called a check valve, is a device that allows water to flow in only one direction. They are commonly used in domestic and commercial plumbing systems to prevent sewage and dirty water from flowing back into the clean water supply.

Non return valves are essential to any plumbing system as they help keep the water clean and prevent contamination. In domestic properties, they are often fitted to stop sewage and dirty water from coming back up through the drains and into the home. Commercial buildings may be used to prevent flood water from entering the premises.

Different types of non return valves are available, depending on the property's specific requirements. The most common type is the gravity operated valve, which uses a weight to close the valve when no water flows through it. Other types of valves include diaphragm-operated valves and piston-operated valves.

Non return valves are essential to any plumbing system and should be regularly checked to ensure they are working correctly. If you have concerns about your non return valve or any other aspect of your plumbing, you should ask a qualified plumber for advice.


What are non return valves?


A non return valve also called a check valve, is a mechanical device that allows fluid (liquid or gas) to flow through it in only one direction. Non return valves are one-way valves that prevent backflow and are used in various applications, from domestic and industrial plumbing to sewage treatment.

There are several types of non return valves, each with advantages and disadvantages. The most common type of non return valve is the swing check valve, which is composed of a disc that swings open when fluid flows in the correct direction and closes when fluid flows in the wrong direction. Swing check valves are simple and reliable but can be noisy and have a higher pressure drop than other valves.

Another common type of non return valve is the ball check valve, which consists of a ball that sits on top of a seat. When fluid flows in the correct direction, the ball is pushed off the chair, allowing fluid to pass through. When fluid flows in the wrong direction, the ball seals against the seat and prevents backflow. Ball check valves are less likely to be noisy than swing check valves, but they can get stuck if debris collects on the ball or seat.

No matter what type of non return valve you choose, it's essential to ensure it is installed correctly and maintained regularly. Non return valves are an integral part of many systems, so it's necessary to ensure they are working correctly.

How do non return valves work?


Non-return valves allow fluid to flow in only one direction. They are essential to many different systems, including plumbing and HVAC systems. Non return valves can be used to prevent backflow, which can occur when fluid flows in the wrong direction. This can happen if there is a sudden change in pressure or if the system is shut down. Non return valves can also be used to control the direction of fluid flow. This can be important in systems where fluid must flow in a specific order, such as in a pipeline. Two main types of non return valves are swing check valves and ball check valves.

Swing check valves have a disc that swings open when fluid flows in the correct direction and closes when fluid flows in the wrong direction. Ball check valves have a ball that sits on top of a seat. When fluid flows in the correct order, the ball is pushed off the chair and allows fluid to pass through. When fluid flows in the wrong direction, the ball seals against the seat and prevents backflow. No matter what type of non return valve you choose, it's essential to ensure it is installed correctly and maintained regularly.

The benefits of non return valves


There are many benefits to having a non return valve in your home. Here are just a few:

1. Non return valves prevent backflow.


This is the most crucial benefit of non return valves. Allowing fluid to flow in only one direction prevents contaminated water from flowing back into your home and contaminating your drinking water supply. In areas where the water supply is known to be contaminated, non return valves are essential for protecting your health.

2. Non return valves protect your plumbing system.


Another essential benefit of non return valves is that they protect your plumbing system from damage. When water flows in the wrong direction through your pipes, it can cause severe damage to your pipes and fixtures. By preventing backflow, non return valves help to keep your plumbing system in good condition and avoid costly repairs.

3. Non return valves can save you money.


Not only do non return valves protect your plumbing system from damage and save you money on your water bill. If you leak into your home, a non return valve will prevent water from flowing out of your home and into the sewer system. This can help you avoid costly sewage fees and keep more money in your pocket each month.

How to install a non return valve


Installing a non return valve is not a difficult task, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind:

  • Make sure you know the direction of the flow. The arrow on the body of the valve should point in the direction of the flow. If it is installed backwards, it will not work correctly.
  • Make sure the valve is installed in an accessible location so that it can be maintained and repaired if necessary.
  • Ensure that the piping leading to and from the valve is supported correctly so there is no chance of it coming loose.
  • When tightening the bolts that hold the valve in place, be careful not to over tighten them, as this could damage the threads.


Once you have installed the non return valve, it is essential to test it to ensure it works correctly. One way to do this is to open the valve and close it again quickly. This should create a watertight seal. Another way to test the valve is to put a piece of paper or another light object on top of the open valve. If the thing is blown off by the water flowing through the valve, it works properly.

Maintaining your non return valve


Assuming the valve is installed correctly, maintenance involves regularly checking the valve for any debris or foreign objects that might have gotten lodged in it and ensuring that it is still functioning correctly. The valve should be checked more frequently if it is located in an area with a lot of foot traffic or if there is a lot of sediment in the water.

To clean the valve, remove any debris or foreign objects that might be blocking it. Next, use a brush to clean the inside of the valve body. Finally, flush the valve with clean water to remove any debris that might have been missed. 

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