How to Replace a Sump Pump Check Valve

A sump pump check valve is located in your sump system’s discharge line. Replacing a check valve should involve only a few hours.

Step 1 – Safety and preparation

Ensure that the sump pit is drained of water before you begin by allowing the sump pump to complete its cycle. Now disconnect the sump pump’s power.

The discharge pipe will likely contain some water that will spill when the old check valve is removed so ensure nothing of value is nearby.

Step 2 – Remove the Old Check Valve

One style of check valve looks like a PVC coupling; another uses hose clamps to fasten to the PVC discharge pipe. To remove, saw or use PVC cutters to cut above and below or loosen the hose clamps top and bottom.

Step 3 – Install the New Valve

Ensure the space cut into the PVC discharge pipe is not larger than the replacement valve. If it is, you will need to remove more of the discharge line, add a PVC coupling with a length of PVC that will allow a proper fit. The replacement check valve must be able to grip the PVC discharge pipe with both hose clamps top and below.

The check valve will be marked with an arrow indicating water flow direction. Install the replacement valve with the arrow pointing toward the drain line and away from the sump pump.

Step 4 – Brace the discharge pipe

The discharge pipe must be supported so that it does not pull apart at the check valve.