Backflow Preventer Vs. Check Valve: What Are The Major Differences?

Modern-day plumbing is a wonderful benefit that many people around the world have become accustomed to. Access to clean and reliable drinking water is a beautiful privilege, mainly due to backflow prevention systems. Using various valves, like a check valve or a backflow preventer, can keep potentially contaminated water away from potable drinking water, keeping you and your family safe.

Both a backflow preventer and a check valve are commonly used and sometimes mandated on plumbing systems to prevent contaminated water from flowing backward through the pipes. With an operational and automatic backflow system, backflow preventers and check valves are ways to keep your drinking water safe. While the price is comparable between a backflow preventer and a check valve, installing a check valve yourself is possible. In contrast, a backflow preventer will need a professional to install the device.

Adding a backflow preventer or a check valve comes with a range of benefits that make this plumbing addition essential in many homes. Not only can backflow valves give you better-tasting drinking water, but they can help to keep your sensitive pumps and plumbing systems in working order, preventing damage from backflow. Plus, the addition of these valves can be economical and help save money by lowering the water pressure through your piping system.

Technically speaking, a backflow preventer is a valve that works to prevent contaminated water from entering your main potable water supply. This valve works by preventing liquids from flowing in the opposite direction.

Backflow preventers are usually installed on apartments or residential homes to help keep drinking water sanitary. In some cases, a backflow preventer might also be required on a swimming pool or a sprinkler system.

Commonly used in plumbing operations, a check valve is a piece of plumbing equipment that only allows fluid to move in one direction. A check valve has two different points, with one used as the inlet and one used as the outlet. A check valve can also be referred to as a non-return valve or a one-way valve. These names are aptly applied to the valve because it only allows liquid to move one way through the plumbing system.

These valves use pressure differential to function. Higher pressure is required on the input side, and lower pressure is required on the output side to open the vale. If the pressure increases on the output side, the valve will close, preventing the liquid from moving backward or in the wrong direction. Compared to other valves, there is no physical operation to make these valves work. This feature is also what helps to make these valves so reliable.

Like a backflow preventer, a check valve can be used on various plumbing systems for residential homes and neighborhoods. These valves are cheap and effective, making them the preferred option for several different applications. These valves might be used for a sewer line or for a reverse osmosis filter in a home. Any application where fluid can only go one direction is a perfect area to install a check valve.

These valves come in several sizes and styles, making them well suited for just about every application. Their function is straight forward and many people will even use small check valves for hobbies and pets like maintaining a high-end aquarium.

Both a backflow preventer and a check valve have similar costs, but the check valve will run slightly less. Expect the backflow device to cost between $35 for small models and $600 for large and complex models. A licensed professional will have to install your backflow preventer, and labor costs can range from $100 to $400. Depending on your area, the total installation for a backflow preventer could cost upwards of $1000, but on average will be about $500.

Comparatively, a check valve may run slightly less depending on the size and model you select. The most basic check valve will run about $35, but even the top-of-the-line check valves will only cost $250. Installation from a professional plumber will be about the same, and the time required to install the valve will be similar to a backflow preventer with similar work required. Expect the total installation for your check valve to run about $350. It is possible to save some money and install a check valve yourself.

Related Questions

Does plumbing code require special valve installation on plumbing fixtures?

Building and plumbing code at all levels, ranging from federal to local code, may require some backflow prevention systems for potable water. The type of backflow prevention can range from an automatic valve to a mechanical backflow preventer. Before installing a new backflow prevention system in your home, it is always best to consult with your local municipality or plumbing company to confirm what is required to meet the code in your area.

Are check valves reliable?

Check valves are commonly used in large residential buildings, like high-rise apartments and industrial power plants. The check valve has no moving parts, which makes this type of valve economical and extremely reliable. On average, a check valve will last about ten years, but it may be possible to get about 15 years of use from a check valve with the right care and maintenance.