Check Valves

Check valves are important mechanical devices that are designed to allow water to flow in one direction only and prevent it from flowing backward. In a fire sprinkler system, its primary purpose is to stop water in the sprinkler piping from flowing back into the public water supply or into other parts of the system. This protects the potable water supply from contamination and ensures the system remains properly pressurized and ready to operate during a fire emergency.

There are several types of check valves that achieve this that are commonly used in fire sprinkler systems:

Swing Check Valve. The most common style, using a hinged disc that swings open when water flows forward and swings closed when pressure changes and the flow of water reverses. These are often used in risers and main feeds.

Clapper Check Valve. Similar to a swing check valve, but typically used in alarm check valves or as part of a backflow preventer assembly. It uses a clapper that opens with forward flow (pressure) and seals tightly under reverse flow (pressure).

Ball Check Valve. This type of a check valve uses a rubber or metal ball to allow flow in one direction. When flow stops or reverses, the ball rolls back into the seat to block the passage therefore preventing water from moving backwards through the valve. These are compact and often used in auxiliary drains and small branch-line applications.

Wafer Check Valve. Designed to fit between two flanges, these valves are thinner and lighter than standard swing checks. They often use a spring-assisted disc and are ideal where space is limited.

Each type of check valve accomplishes the same ultimate objective of preventing backflow, but the choice depends on the system layout, required flow characteristics, and installation space.

Explore our selection of check valves to find the model and size that's right for you and buy online today!