Ranking of the best check valves for water for 2022

A small device that allows water to flow in one direction, called a non-return valve, can help prevent a large-scale domestic disaster caused by a pipe burst or a pump turning off.

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

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

General information and scope

Purpose

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

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

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

Applications

1. Centralized water supply.

2. Autonomous water supply.

3. Sewer line.

4. Autonomous heating.

5. Industrial networks:

• plumbing;
• 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 pumping equipment when the pump stops;
• protection of equipment from water hammer;
• leakage prevention;
• maintaining the filling of pipes.

Advantages

The manufactured products have a carefully thought-out design with high efficiency.

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

Components and work

Design

General structural elements:

• collapsible metal case (galvanized), having the best anti-corrosion properties and resistant to active substances, including:
• • spool chamber;
  • coupling with internal thread for exit/inlet;
• saddle;
• constipation made of plastic or brass of various shapes;
• silicone or rubber gasket;
• stainless steel spring installed between the plates and the seat.

Operating principle

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

With reverse flow, the locking device is pressed against the seat, and flow becomes impossible, as shown in the photo.

Classification

Signs of classification.

1. Type of locking device:

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

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

• ball - constipation-ball, supported by a spring, which is shifted from the flow, passing water;

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

• double-leaf - shut-off doors 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. Attachment type:

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

• flanged - due to flange connection. In industry, apply to large pipes;

• interflange - by means of two flanges tightened with bolts. Used with large pipes;

• for welding - for long-term tightness.

3. Material:

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

size 4:

• standard - for most pipes:
• • 1 inch is the highest demand;
  • ½ inch - less popular products due to low throughput;
  • ¾ inch - to pipes of small diameter;
• miniature - for placement inside the counters, when there is no place for a standard valve;
• small - from the output of the counter;
• large sizes - for industrial pipe equipment.

Self-manufacturing

The 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 metal tee with thread;
• saddle for constipation;
• hard spring;
• a metal ball of the appropriate diameter;
• plug;
• sealing tape;
• tool kit.

The assembly of the structure is carried out in stages.

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

The flow from the sleeve depresses the ball, opening the gap for flow in the forward direction. When the pressure drops, the ball is pressed back, closing the gap with flow blocking.

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

Criterias of choice

Specifications:

• nominal diameter DN (in the Russian Federation - Du) - approximately corresponds to the pipe. Considered 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 the Russian Federation - Ru) - the value for safe and long-term use;

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

• landing element diameter;
• throughput;
• fastener type;
• tightness class;
• operating temperature range.

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

The basic parameters for which shutoff valves are selected:

• design possibilities for the selection of fasteners;
• pressure level;
• area sizes.

Practical recommendations

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 a complete set of documentation. A new device is considered to be a device from the date of manufacture of which no more than five years have passed. 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 warranty is valid anymore, and the functionality does not meet the requirements.
3. The nominal pressure value is selected in excess of the current one for stable trouble-free use.
4. Buy from a reputable seller to avoid acquiring old illiquid assets 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 are priced at two to three times less than the factory.
5. Take into account the advice and recommendations of people who are trusted.

Marking

In accordance with the provisions of the Central Design Bureau of Valve Building, domestic products are marked with alphanumeric markings:

• product type;
• material:

• type of drive:

• seal material:

Recommended installation locations:

• after a pump immersed in a well or well;
• after water meters;
• in front of the heater
• in front of every plumbing fixture.

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, it is necessary to take into account the flow of water through the pipeline. To do this, the valve is marked with an arrow indicating the correct orientation of the valve.

Requirements:

• interflange products are fastened between flanges with mandatory sealing with seals;
• lifting devices are precisely 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;
• poor sealing - leaks appear with closed constipation;
• 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 threads - the threat of splitting the coupling;
• forgetfulness when removing the plug or removing the constipation retainer.

In case of unsatisfactory operation, the check valve must be replaced.

It is possible to extend the service life almost twice by placing a strainer at the inlet of the device.

Rating of the best check valves

Compiled based on the popularity of products in the Yandex.Market Internet service, as well as according to 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 their purchase in everyday conditions, as well as in the construction of country houses. This overview contributes to a better orientation in the market of non-return valves required for repair. The rating has a subjective form, it is not a guide to buying.

TOP 3 Butterfly Type Check Valves

Tecofi CB 3448 DN100 PN16

3rd place.

A 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 technological pipelines.

When installed vertically, the opening of the leaves must correspond to the flow. For horizontal mounting, the axis of the device must be vertical.

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Nominal diameter, mm	100
Pressure max., bar	16
Medium temperature	4⁰С - 130⁰С
Mounting type	interflange
Material:
frame	cast iron GG25
sashes	chrome-plated 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.

• small pressure losses;
• universality;
• noiselessness of work;
• stainless steel springs.

• clearly visible were not found.

GENEBRE 2401 PN16 DN65

2nd place.

Direct acting wafer type device. It is applied to water supply with hot and cold water, in systems of the sewerage, water disposal, air conditioning, engineering systems of pipelines, industrial systems of different types.

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Nominal diameter, mm	65
Pressure max., bar	16
Medium temperature, max.	100⁰С
Mounting type	interflange
Connection size	2 1/2"
Material:
frame	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.

• clearly expressed were not found.

Khlop CV-02/W DN 50 – 300

1 place.

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

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

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Nominal diameter, mm	50, 65, 80, 100, 125, 150, 200, 250, 300
Pressure max., bar	16; 25
Medium temperature, max.	100⁰С (PN16); 200⁰С (PN25)
Compound	interflange
Material:
frame	gray cast iron (PN16), stainless steel (PN25)
sashes	chrome-plated malleable 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;
	oil products.
Guarantee	1 year
Manufacturer	DINANSI/DINARM (Slovakia)

Price: from 2700 rubles.

• can be installed horizontally or vertically;
• sashes made of malleable iron;
• epoxy coating.

• cannot be installed vertically with downward flow.

TOP 3 Disc Type 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. It does not allow the flow of incoming water into the water supply. The product is made of anticorrosive brass, plastic membranes.

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Compound	internal thread 1"
Connection type	coupling
Material:
frame	brass
membrane	plastic
performance	without mesh or with mesh
Weight, kg	0.25
Wednesday	hot and cold water
Guarantee	1 year
Life time	8 years
Brand	Subline Service (Russia)
Producing country	China

Average price: 455 rubles.

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

• clearly expressed were not found.

Quattro Elementi 771-800

2nd place.

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

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Compound	1", internal thread
Connection type	coupling
Material	brass
Weight, kg	0.21
Filter	there is
Wednesday	hot and cold water
Brand	QUATTRO ELEMENTI
Producing country	Italy

Price: 299 - 362 rubles.

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

• clearly visible were not found.

Kalde 20

1 place.

It is applied to installation on pipes of cold and hot water supply, and also heating system. Well suited for placement together with a water meter. Any mounting position. New products work in any conditions at any temperature. The connection to the pipe is made by heat treatment, which requires a soldering iron. You can always order online.

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
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	Kalde
Producing country	Turkey

Price: from 230 rubles.

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

Flaws:

• clearly expressed were not found.

TOP 3 Swing Check Valves

1" BUGATTI 180

3rd place.

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

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Pressure, bar	16
Temperature	90⁰С
Thread:	3", inner - inner
the size	13"
the size	23"
Material:
frame	forged brass
gate	forged brass
gate seal	nitrile butadiene rubber
mounting washer	stainless steel
Packing dimensions, mm:
height	50
length	50
width	50
Weight, kg	1
Guarantee	1 year
Brand	BUGATTI (Italy)
Producing country	Russia

Price: 1500 rubles.

• small pressure losses;
• brass body;
• convenient installation;
• long service life;
• easy transportation.

• clearly visible were not found.

110mm Aquaviva

2nd place.

A device with a socket end to prevent backflow of the medium in the pipeline. Made of high quality plastic, resistant to oxidation or aggressive chemicals.

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Pressure, bar	10
Temperature	100⁰С
Connection diameter, mm	110
Length, mm	358
Material:
frame	PVC
bolts and nuts	stainless steel
Gate mechanism	petal
Compound	under glue
Life time	30 years
Warranty period of storage	2 years
Brand	Aquaviva (PRC)
Producing country	China

Price: 6900 rubles.

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

• clearly expressed were not found.

Tim JH-1014

1 place.

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

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Diameter, mm	1 1/2" x 1 1/2"
Pressure, bar	25
Temperature max.	130⁰С
Compound	1 1/2", thread female - female
Connection type	coupling
Material:
frame	brass
constipation	brass
stock	brass
seal	brass
Wednesday	water, steam, compressed air, non-aggressive gases or liquids
Life time	25 years
Brand	Tim (China)
Producing country	China

Cost: 720 - 1010 rubles.

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

• clearly visible were not found.

TOP 3 lift type check valves

Zetkama V277

3rd place.

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

Characteristic:

Parameter	Meaning
Diameter	10 - 50
Pressure, bar	16
Temperature max.	200⁰С
Compound	thread internal
Connection type	coupling
Material:
frame	cast iron
lid	cast iron
spring	steel
saddle	steel
seal	polonite (clingerite)
Wednesday	water, steam or gases, non-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	Zetkama (Poland)
Producing country	Poland

Price: from 1740 rubles.

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

• clearly expressed were not found.

Rushwork 487-025-16

2nd place.

Lifting type device made of cast iron for automatic closing of the reverse movement of the working medium. It is used in networks of 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 the medium flow.

The body with a cover are made of alloyed cast iron with the addition of lamellar graphite. Alloy steel disc with low carbon content and additives of chromium, nickel, molybdenum has a high resistance to precipitation, acids or sea water. At high temperatures, the properties do not change.

Characteristic:

Parameter	Meaning
Diameter	15 - 200
Working pressure, bar	16
Throughput, m³/h	11.5
Temperature max.	200⁰С
Connection type	flanged
Material:
frame	cast iron
lid	cast iron
constipation	stainless steel
spring	stainless steel
pad	graphite
saddle	stainless steel
Working environment	water, steam or gases, non-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	Rushwork (Russia)
Producing country	Russia

Priced from 1980 rubles.

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

• clearly visible were not identified.

Granlock RD16F

1 place.

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

Characteristics:

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

Price: from 2000 rubles.

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

• clearly expressed were not found.

TOP 3 Ball Type Check Valves

Pedrollo VR-FT2

3rd place.

Threaded ball device designed specifically for submersible pumps. Designed for vertical installation, backflow prevention and protection of plumbing and pumping equipment.

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Diameter	2"
Working pressure, bar	10
Temperature max.	80⁰С
Compound	threaded
Material:
frame	cast iron
Working environment	water
Weight, kg	1
Guarantee period	12 months
Brand	Pedrollo
Producing country	Italy

Price: from 7840 rubles.

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

• clearly expressed were not found.

WATERSTRY

2nd place.

Pig-iron spherical product for a drainage and the sewerage. Passes water of any degree of impurity.

Characteristics:

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

Price: from 3600 rubles.

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

• clearly expressed were not identified.

1″ ALTSTREAM

1 place.

It is applied at installation of economic or drinking water supply systems, hot water supply, heating, compressed air, liquid hydrocarbons and technological pipelines.

Characteristics:

Parameter	Meaning
Diameter	from 1/2" to 1"
Working pressure, bar	30
Temperature max.	150⁰С
Compound	threaded, internal
Wet end class	straight full bore horizontal
Material:
frame	brass
gate	brass
coating	nickel
Working environment	water
Weight, kg	0.253
Life time	30 years
Brand	ALTSTREAM (Italy)
Producing country	China

Price: 416 rubles.

• high reliability;
• durability;

high quality nickel plated brass.

• clearly expressed were not identified.

Conclusion

Thus, now the valve market is filled with a range of low quality products, which even an experienced specialist cannot distinguish from normal. In addition, there are many products from China under the brands of well-known brands that are sold at two to three times the market value with documentary "confirmations" of super technology.

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

Enjoy the shopping!