Rating of the best water check valves for 2020

A small device that allows water to flow in one direction - a check valve - can help prevent a large-scale domestic disaster caused by a pipe break or a pump shutdown.

Stop valves stores offer a wide selection of check valves of various modifications, among which you can find both branded products and products of unknown manufacturers. Among them are popular models of different price segments: budget or mid-range options, as well as premium goods or expensive industrial units.

The review presents the classification, principles of operation, characteristics, as well as a description of products, the analysis of which can help answer the questions - what devices are there, how to choose and how much the required device costs, as well as where and which one is better to buy.

General information and scope

Appointment

The pipeline system provides for the constant movement of the medium strictly in one direction. With a decrease in head, a reverse flow may occur, which can cause damage with the destruction of technical equipment.

A check valve is a pipeline shut-off valve that does not allow the flow of the working medium in the opposite direction.

In the event of an abnormal situation, it acts as a fuse to protect the pipeline or equipment from critical changes or water hammer. Actuation occurs automatically due to the energy of the water flow, which refers the device to a direct-acting valve.

Applications

1. Centralized water supply.

2. Autonomous water supply.

3. Sewer main.

4. Autonomous heating.

5. Industrial networks:

• water pipes;
• drains;
• oil and gas pipelines;
• transportation of chemicals;
• other engineering networks.

Tasks to be solved:

• preventing cold water from entering the hot pipe;
• system pressure stabilization;
• protection of the pumping equipment when the pump stops;
• protection of equipment against water hammer;
• preventing leakage;
• preservation of filling of pipes.

Advantages

The manufactured products have an elaborate design with high efficiency.

• stable operation at sudden pressure drops;
• the minimum time for closing the flow due to the low stroke of the shut-off device;
• automatic action when changing the flow or system parameters;
• small weight and size values;
• versatility;
• simplicity of design;
• ease of maintenance;
• good bandwidth;
• the use of different technologies for fastening to pipes.

Components and work

Design

General structural elements:

• dismountable metal casing (electroplated) with the best anti-corrosion properties and resistance to active substances, including:
• • spool chamber;
  • female socket for outlet / inlet;
• saddle;
• constipation made of plastic or brass of various shapes;
• silicone or rubber gasket;
• a stainless steel spring installed between the poppets and the seat.

Operating principle

The movable locking device moves freely inside the product. If the flow is moving in the desired direction, the ball moves away from the seat, opening the gap to the flow.

In reverse flow, the shut-off device is pressed against the seat, and flow becomes impossible, as shown in the photo.

Classification

Classification signs.

1. Type of locking device:

• lifting - the constipation moves up and down. After water is supplied from the pump, it opens slightly, in the absence of pressure it closes due to the pressure of the spring;

• rotary - shut-off valves that open under pressure or close with a spring when the pump is turned off;

• ball - a ball lock supported by a spring, which is shifted from the stream, allowing water to pass through;

• disc - the lock slides along the pulley under the spring;

• double-leaf - the gate leaves fold under pressure or close when there is no flow.

For domestic purposes, lifting type products with a replaceable spring are usually used, due to the breakdown of which the device often fails.

2. Mounting type:

• coupling - due to two threaded transitions along the pipe. At home, thread from 15 to 18 mm (½ ”- 3”);

• flanged - due to flange connection. In industry, they are applied to large pipes;

• flanged - by means of two bolted flanges. Suitable for large pipes;

• welded for long term tightness.

3. Material:

• Brass - with good anti-corrosion properties, durable and unpretentious. They are used on small pipes, often used in everyday life.
• Cast iron - for large pipes.
• Made of stainless steel - durable for any pipes, as well as resistant to active substances, but expensive.

size 4:

• standard - for most pipes:
• • 1 inch is the highest demand;
  • ½ "- less popular products due to low bandwidth;
  • ¾ inch - for small diameter pipes;
• miniature - for placement inside the squeegee of meters when there is no room for a standard valve;
• small - from the output of the counter;
• large sizes - for equipment of pipes for industrial use.

Self-production

A check valve for water can be assembled by hand using the necessary set of consumables.

To implement a creative idea you will need:

• body made of threaded metal tee;
• saddle for constipation;
• stiff spring;
• a metal ball of the corresponding diameter;
• stub;
• sealing tape;
• set of tools.

The assembly of the structure is carried out in stages.

1. First, the coupling is screwed in with the expectation to block the lumen of the side pipe by more than two millimeters.
2. A ball is inserted into the other hole, supported by a spring.
3. A plug is installed.
4. The connections are sealed with a seal.

The flow from the sleeve pushes the ball, opening the gap for forward flow. When the pressure drops, the ball is pushed back, closing the gap and blocking the flow.

It is impossible to ensure the proper quality and reliability of a self-assembled device.

Criterias of choice

Specifications:

• nominal diameter DN (in RF - DN) - approximately corresponds to the pipe. It is counted in millimeters or inches;

Standard row: 6, 8, 10 (3/8 "), 15 (1/2"), 20 (3/4 "), 25 (1"), 32 (1 1/4 "), 40 (1 1 / 2 "), 50 (2"), 65 (2 1/2 "), 80 (3"), 100 (4 "), 125, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1200 mm.

• nominal pressure PN (in RF - Ru) - value for safe and long-term use;

Standard row: 0, 16, 25, 40, 63, 100, 160, 250, 400, 600 kgf / cm2.

• diameter of the seat;
• bandwidth;
• type of fastener;
• tightness class;
• operating temperature range.

Before choosing, a list of the characteristics of the pipeline is drawn up where the check valve will be used.

Basic parameters for which shut-off valves are selected:

• design possibilities for the selection of fasteners;
• pressure level;
• plot size.

Practical advice

1. The place of purchase is chosen by the buyer. But you can use the advice of experts on what to look for in order to avoid mistakes when choosing.
2. The product must be new with complete documentation. A device is considered new if it has been manufactured no more than five years ago. This is due to the fact that polymer seals lose their properties during long-term storage. In addition, after five years of being in the warehouse, no guarantee is valid anymore, and the functionality does not meet the requirements.
3. The value of the nominal pressure is selected with an excess over the current one for stable, trouble-free use.
4. Buy from a seller with a reliable reputation to avoid purchasing old illiquid products with a fake homemade passport and a valid manufacturer's certificate that has been producing similar products for more than 10 years. Typically, such products cost two to three times less than at the factory.
5. Consider advice and guidance from trusted individuals.

Marking

In accordance with the provisions of the Central Design Bureau of Valves, domestic products are designated with alphanumeric markings:

• product type;
• material:

• type of drive:

• seal material:

Recommended installation locations:

• after a pump submerged in a well or well;
• after water measuring devices;
• in front of the heater;
• in front of each sanitary ware.

Installation rules

Different design features, as well as characteristics, require an individual approach, how to install and which method to choose during construction or at home. First of all, the flow of water through the pipeline must be taken into account. For this, an arrow is marked on the valve indicating the correct orientation of the valve.

Requirements:

• interflange products are fastened between flanges with obligatory sealing with seals;
• the lifting devices are accurately oriented vertically, otherwise the action of the spool will be ineffective;
• couplings are screwed onto the pipe thread.

Possible mistakes:

• inattention to the direction of the flow;
• unsatisfactory sealing - leaks appear when the constipation is closed;
• incorrect selection of the section - the occurrence of knocks;
• installation near the location of the pump - the appearance of rattling;
• a lot of flax for winding the thread - the threat of splitting the coupling;
• forgetfulness when removing the plug or removing the lock lock.

If the operation is unsatisfactory, the check valve must be replaced.

The service life can be almost doubled by placing a strainer at the inlet of the device.

Rating of the best check valves

Compiled on the basis of the popularity of products in the Yandex.Market Internet service, as well as in the opinion of buyers of valves in online stores. At the same time, industrial units at inflated prices were not considered due to the lack of interest in buying them in everyday conditions, as well as in the construction of country houses. This overview helps you better navigate the repair check valve market. The rating has a subjective form, it is not a purchase guide.

TOP 3 double-leaf check valves

Tecofi CB 3448 DN100 PN16

3rd place.

Product with a heat-resistant seal. Used for vertical or horizontal installation.The double-leaf mechanism is used in water supply, fire extinguishing, heating systems, as well as in process pipelines.

For vertical installation, the opening of the flaps must correspond to the flow. When mounted horizontally, the axis of the device must be vertical.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Nominal diameter, mm	100
Max pressure, bar	16
Medium temperature	4⁰C - 130⁰C
Mounting type	wafer
Material:
body	cast iron GG25
sash	chromed ductile iron
springs	steel 304
stock	steel 410
sealant	nitrile / EPDM
Weight, kg	4.85
Guarantee	1 year
Manufacturer	TECOFI (France)

Price: from 6200 rubles.

• low pressure loss;
• versatility;
• noiselessness of work;
• stainless steel springs.

• clearly noticeable were not found.

GENEBRE 2401 PN16 DN65

2nd place.

Direct action wafer type device. It is used for hot and cold water supply, in sewage systems, drainage, air conditioning, engineering piping systems, industrial systems of various types.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Nominal diameter, mm	65
Max pressure, bar	16
Medium temperature, max.	100⁰C
Mounting type	wafer
Connection size	2 1/2"
Material:
body	cast iron
gate	stainless steel
sealant	nitrile rubber (NBR)
Weight, kg	2.45
Guarantee	1 year
Manufacturer	Genebre (Spain)

Price: from 2300 rubles.

• can be installed vertically, horizontally or at an angle;
• stainless steel disc;
• epoxy coated surface.

• pronounced not found.

Khlop CV-02 / W DN 50 - 300

1 place.

The branded non-return valve is commonly used for heating and water supply, as well as in automatic fire extinguishing systems.

The popularity of the models determines industrial use in the petrochemical, pulp and paper, metallurgical, cement industries, as well as water utilities. The collection of the line of models contains nine items.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Nominal diameter, mm	50, 65, 80, 100, 125, 150, 200, 250, 300
Max pressure, bar	16; 25
Medium temperature, max.	100 ° C (PN16); 200⁰С (PN25)
Compound	wafer
Material:
body	gray cast iron (PN16), stainless steel (PN25)
sash	chrome-plated ductile iron (PN16), stainless steel (PN25)
springs	stainless steel
stock	stainless steel
sealant	nitrile (PN16), viton (PN25)
PN16	1.8; 2.3; 3.3; 4.5; 6.0; 10.0; 15.7; 25.0; 36.1
PN25	2.2; 2.5; 4.0; 5.3; 6.8; 11.7; 19.1
Wednesday	hot and cold water;
	steam;
	oils;
	petroleum products.
Guarantee	1 year
Manufacturer	DINANSI / DINARM (Slovakia)

Price: from 2700 rubles.

• can be installed horizontally or vertically;
• ductile iron sash;
• epoxy coating.

• must not be installed vertically with downstream flow.

TOP 3 disc check valves

UNIPUMP 77027

3rd place.

It is used to protect plumbing and pumping equipment. The single-leaf mechanism is installed at the beginning of the suction line. Prevents incoming water from flowing into the water supply system. The product is made of anti-corrosion brass, plastic membranes.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Compound	internal thread 1 "
Connection type	clutch
Material:
body	brass
membrane	plastic
execution	without mesh or with mesh
Weight, kg	0.25
Wednesday	hot and cold water
Guarantee	1 year
Life time	8 years
Brand name	Subline Service (Russia)
Manufacturer country	China

Average price: 455 rubles.

• compactness;
• long service life;
• good anti-corrosion properties;
• light weight;
• excellent value for money.

• pronounced not found.

Quattro Elementi 771-800

2nd place.

An Italian-made product with a filter is used with pumping stations or pumps to prevent unintentional drainage of water from the system, including when the pump stops suddenly. The valve has an internal thread and a non-removable mesh. Made of brass, no springs.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Compound	1 "female thread
Connection type	clutch
Material	brass
Weight, kg	0.21
Filter	there is
Wednesday	hot and cold water
Brand name	QUATTRO ELEMENTI
Manufacturer country	Italy

Price: 299 - 362 rubles.

• brass cast body;
• compactness;
• long service life.

• clearly noticeable were not found.

Kalde 20

1 place.

It is used for installation on pipes of cold and hot water supply, as well as heating systems. Well suited for placement together with a water meter. Any mounting position. New items work in any conditions at all temperatures. The connection to the pipe is carried out by heat treatment, which requires a soldering iron. You can always order online.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Diameter, mm	20
Pressure, bar	25
Temperature	80
Connection type	welding
Material	polypropylene
Weight, kg	0.05
Dimensions (WxHxD), mm	56x47x47
Guarantee	50 years
Wednesday	hot and cold water
Brand name	Kalde
Manufacturer country	Turkey

Price: from 230 rubles.

• resistance to corrosion;
• low weight;
• good resistance to active substances in water;
• long service life;
• convenient installation;
• compactness;
• ease of transportation;
• positive user reviews;
• excellent value for money.

Disadvantages:

• pronounced not found.

TOP 3 rotary type check valves

1 ″ BUGATTI 180

3rd place.

Horizontal product with swivel brass core to prevent water flow in the opposite direction. They are installed on pipelines for flow in only one direction of cold or hot water, as well as compressed air. The flow direction is indicated on the device.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Pressure, bar	16
Temperature	90⁰C
Thread:	3 ", inner - inner
the size	13"
the size	23"
Material:
body	forged brass
gate	forged brass
gate seal	nitrile-butadiene rubber
shim	stainless steel
Packing dimensions, mm:
height	50
length	50
width	50
Weight, kg	1
Guarantee	1 year
Brand name	BUGATTI (Italy)
Manufacturer country	Russia

Price: 1500 rubles.

• low pressure loss;
• brass body;
• convenient installation;
• long service life;
• easy transportation.

• clearly noticeable were not found.

110 mm Aquaviva

2nd place.

A device with a sleeve end to prevent backflow of the medium in the pipeline. Made of high quality plastic resistant to oxidation or corrosive chemical elements.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Pressure, bar	10
Temperature	100⁰C
Connection diameter, mm	110
Length, mm	358
Material:
body	polyvinyl chloride
bolts and nuts	stainless steel
Gate valve mechanism	petal
Compound	under glue
Life time	30 years
Warranty period of storage	2 years
Brand name	Aquaviva (PRC)
Manufacturer country	China

Price: 6900 rubles.

• light weight;
• resistance to corrosion;
• small pressure loss;
• compactness;
• good resistance to active substances in water;
• long service life.

• pronounced not found.

Tim JH-1014

1 place.

A product with a metal stem is used for heating systems, water supply, as well as supplying various gases. Can be installed in any position.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Diameter, mm	1 1/2 "x 1 1/2"
Pressure, bar	25
Temperature max.	130⁰C
Compound	1 1/2 ", female - female
Connection type	clutch
Material:
body	brass
constipation	brass
stock	brass
seal	brass
Wednesday	water, steam, compressed air, non-aggressive gases or liquids
Life time	25 years
Brand name	Tim (China)
Manufacturer country	China

Cost: 720 - 1010 rubles.

• installation versatility;
• lack of rubbing surfaces;
• resistance to high ambient temperatures;
• large bandwidth.

• clearly noticeable were not found.

TOP 3 lift type check valves

Zetkama V277

3rd place.

The cast iron product is used to prevent backflow. The use of a spring pressing the lock ensures high tightness and stable operation on vertical or horizontal pipelines.

Characteristic:

Parameter	Value
Diameter	10 - 50
Pressure, bar	16
Temperature max.	200⁰C
Compound	internal thread
Connection type	clutch
Material:
body	cast iron
cap	cast iron
spring	steel
saddle	steel
seal	polonite (klingerite)
Wednesday	water, steam or gases that are not corrosive to the materials of the product
Weight, kg	0,4 - 3,6
width, mm	2024-12-01 00:00:00
height	36 - 84
length	85 - 200
Life time	25 years
Brand name	Zetkama (Poland)
Manufacturer country	Poland

Price: from 1740 rubles.

• high tightness of closure;
• noiselessness of work;
• environmental Safety;
• additional maintenance is not required;
• good maintainability;
• long term of work;
• structural strength.

• pronounced not found.

Rushwork 487-025-16

2nd place.

A lifting device made of cast iron for automatic closing of the reverse movement of the working medium. It is used in water supply, heating, air conditioning and cooling systems, as well as chemical, oil and gas, pulp and paper, as well as other industries. The arrow corresponds to the direction of flow of the medium.

The body with the lid is made of alloyed cast iron with the addition of lamellar graphite. Disc alloy steel with a low carbon content and additions of chromium, nickel, molybdenum has a high resistance to precipitation, acids or seawater. The properties do not change at high temperatures.

Characteristic:

Parameter	Value
Diameter	15 - 200
Working pressure, bar	16
Throughput, m³ / h	11.5
Temperature max.	200⁰C
Connection type	flanged
Material:
body	cast iron
cap	cast iron
constipation	stainless steel
spring	stainless steel
gasket	graphite
saddle	stainless steel
Workspace	water, steam or gases that are not corrosive to the materials of the product
Weight, kg	2,3 - 108,2
height	95 - 340
length	130 - 600
Guarantee	1 year after commissioning, no more than 18 months from sale
Brand name	Rashwork (Russia)
Manufacturer country	Russia

At a price of 1980 rubles.

• high resistance to external influences;
• reliability;
• long service life;
• graphite gasket for nitrile gasket;
• good tightness.

• not clearly visible.

Granlock RD16F

1 place.

The Russian-made product prevents backflow in the pipeline. The intended use of the spring element allows achieving high tightness of the closure and stable operation on vertical or horizontal pipes.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Diameter	15 - 200
Working pressure, bar	16
Temperature max.	300⁰C
Connection type	flanged
Material:
body	cast iron
cap	cast iron
constipation	stainless steel
spring	stainless steel
seal	graphite
saddle	stainless steel
Workspace	liquids, steam or gases
Weight, kg	3,1 - 111,6
Length, mm	130 - 600
Guarantee period	12 months
Brand name	ADL (Russia)
Manufacturer country	Russia

Price: from 2000 rubles.

• high closing speed;
• reliable tightness;
• installation versatility;
• long service life.

• pronounced not found.

TOP 3 ball type check valves

Pedrollo VR-FT 2

3rd place.

Threaded ball joint specially designed for submersible pumps. Designed for vertical installation, preventing backflow, and protecting plumbing and pumping equipment.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Diameter	2"
Working pressure, bar	10
Temperature max.	80⁰C
Compound	threaded
Material:
body	cast iron
Workspace	water
Weight, kg	1
Guarantee period	12 months
Brand name	Pedrollo
Manufacturer country	Italy

Price: from 7840 rubles.

• special design for submersible pump;
• good tightness;
• quick installation;
• not subject to oxidation and corrosion.

• pronounced not found.

WATERSTRY

2nd place.

Cast iron ball product for drainage and sewerage. Allows water of any degree of pollution to pass

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Diameter	1" 1/2; 2" 1/2
Working pressure, bar	10
Temperature max.	120⁰C
Compound	threaded, internal
Material:
body	cast iron
Workspace	water
Weight, kg	1,5; 3,5
depth, mm	50; 75
height	100; 150
width	150; 250
Guarantee period	12 months
Brand name	WATERSTRY
Manufacturer country	China

Price: from 3600 rubles.

• free passage is increased;
• does not get dirty and does not jam;
• ease of cleaning through the inspection hole;
• durability of the material;
• lack of internal mechanisms.

• clearly expressed are not identified.

1 ″ ALTSTREAM

1 place.

It is used when installing utility or drinking water pipelines, hot water supply, heating, compressed air, liquid hydrocarbons and technological pipelines.

Specifications:

Parameter	Value
Diameter	1/2 "to 1"
Working pressure, bar	30
Temperature max.	150⁰C
Compound	threaded, internal
Flow path class	straight full bore horizontal
Material:
body	brass
gate	brass
coating	nickel
Workspace	water
Weight, kg	0.253
Life time	30 years
Brand name	ALTSTREAM (Italy)
Manufacturer country	China

Price: 416 rubles.

• high reliability;
• durability;

high quality nickel-plated brass.

• clearly expressed are not identified.

Conclusion

Thus, now the market of valves is filled with an assortment of low quality products, which even an experienced specialist cannot distinguish from normal ones. In addition, there are many products from China under the brands of well-known brands, which are sold at two to three times the market value with documentary "evidence" of super equipment.

However, with a thorough consideration of the above nuances, there will be no problem to choose a check valve for water. The main thing is not to forget about the price-quality ratio.

Enjoy the shopping!