Check valve on DIY return

[redchaser]

I notice some folks saying they drill holes in their return to break back siphoning. Anybody use a PVC check valve? Picked one up to use on my soon to be assembled return and was wondering if there was a downside?

Thanks,

Ron

 

[wow_it_esploded]

The only downside is that they can fail, while a hole on the return cannot (well maybe, but it would have to be under wild circumstances)

 

[wow_it_esploded]

Oh and they cost more... The hole is free while the check valve is a few bucks

 

[hillbilly]

I've used both the PVC and brass check valves. I like the brass ones best. They are much better quality. They are fine for freshwater, and cause no problems. You would have to use PVC on saltwater, the salt would corrode brass quickly. I always hear people say "check valves will fail", but the one in my well has been there 20 years and has never failed. If it did I would know it, because my pump would lose prime. I have one on one of my tanks that has been working over 5 years so far. I suppose anything can fail, but if you use valves of decent quality, there is no reason not to expect them to last for many years.

 

[wow_it_esploded]

I know... but I felt obligated to say that because I have read about people having check valves fail left-n-right, ya know...

I would still use a hole, even with a check valve... Just that little extra piece of mind... I actually have my whole spray bar out of the water...