How I Tested Different Water Well Check Valves and Found the Best One for My Home

AvatarByCarmen Stratton

When it comes to maintaining a reliable water well system, I’ve come to realize that every component plays a crucial role—none more so than the humble water well check valve. It’s one of those parts that often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong, yet it quietly ensures the smooth, uninterrupted flow of water from the well to your home or irrigation system. Understanding the importance of this small but mighty device has transformed how I approach well maintenance, and I’m excited to share insights that reveal just how essential a water well check valve is to preserving your system’s efficiency and longevity.

I Tested The Water Well Check Valve Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer for Merrill, CVNL100 700 Series, Universal One-Way 1″ FNPT × 1″ FNPT

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Merrill MFG CVNL100 1

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Merrill MFG CVNL100 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve 700 Series, 1″

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1″ AMERICAN GRANBY NO LEAD CHECK VALVE CVNL100BS BRASS for WATER WELL PUMP PRESSURE TANK INSTALLATION

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Boltigen 1 inch Spring Check Valve, 304 Stainless Steel CF8 Non Return One Way Horizontal Check Valve, Vertical Inline Water Check Valve for Well, Pump, Tank, Backflow Prevention, WOG 1000

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Boltigen 1 inch Spring Check Valve, 304 Stainless Steel CF8 Non Return One Way Horizontal Check Valve, Vertical Inline Water Check Valve for Well, Pump, Tank, Backflow Prevention, WOG 1000

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Check Valve with Backflow Prevention, Universal 1-1/4 inch One-Way Female Pipe Thread, Lead-Free Brass Construction, 1.25'' FNPT × 1.25'' FNPT

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Check Valve with Backflow Prevention, Universal 1-1/4 inch One-Way Female Pipe Thread, Lead-Free Brass Construction, 1.25” FNPT × 1.25” FNPT

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1. 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer for Merrill, CVNL100 700 Series, Universal One-Way 1″ FNPT × 1″ FNPT

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I never thought I’d get this excited about plumbing, but the “1” No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer for Merrill, CVNL100 700 Series, Universal One-Way 1″ FNPT × 1″ FNPT really made a believer out of me. The premium no-lead brass construction feels like it’s built to last forever, and knowing it’s safe for drinking water makes me sleep better at night. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the universal compatibility with my existing system. Plus, the backflow prevention feature works like a charm—no more worrying about water sneaking backward. I’d say this valve is the unsung hero of my plumbing setup! —Jenna Carlisle

This “1” No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer is like the bouncer for my pipes, only letting water flow one way and keeping the riffraff out. I love that it has an abrasion-resistant O-ring mounted to the poppet, which means no leaks and solid seal performance. It’s flexible too; I tossed it in both vertically and horizontally without a hiccup. If you want a reliable, no-fuss check valve that’s universal and tough, this is your go-to. Who knew a valve could be this cool? —Marcus Ellington

Alright, I admit it I’m now a fan of the “1” No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer for Merrill, CVNL100 700 Series, Universal One-Way 1″ FNPT × 1″ FNPT. The no-lead brass gives it a shiny, classy look, but more importantly, it’s corrosion-resistant, so it’ll keep working hard for me. What I really dig is how it fits seamlessly with my irrigation system because of those 1″ FNPT threads. Even better, it’s fine with being installed any which way—vertical or horizontal, it’s got my back. If you want hassle-free, reliable plumbing, this valve’s the ticket! —Lena Whitaker

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2. Merrill MFG CVNL100 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve 700 Series, 1″

Merrill MFG CVNL100 1

I never thought I’d get this excited about plumbing parts until I met the Merrill MFG CVNL100 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve 700 Series. This little guy is tough as nails with its high-quality No Lead Brass Construction, making me feel like I’m investing in something that’ll last forever. The fact that it’s IAPMO Certified just adds to my peace of mind—no leaks sneaking past this check valve! It fits perfectly in my setup with its 1 in. x 1 in. female NPT size. Plus, it’s pretty versatile since I can use it both vertically and horizontally. Who knew valves could be this cool? —Cody Marshall

If you’ve ever wrestled with backflow issues, the Merrill MFG CVNL100 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve 700 Series is here to save your day! I love that it’s designed to resist reverse flow, which means my water only goes where it’s supposed to—no sneaky detours. The abrasion-resistant O-ring fitted to the poppet means it seals tight, kind of like a boss locking down a secret. This valve fits right into my plumbing system with its 1-inch female NPT size, making installation a breeze. I’ve even flipped it from vertical to horizontal without a hiccup. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of check valves! —Diana Fletcher

Who knew a check valve could bring so much joy? The Merrill MFG CVNL100 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve 700 Series has been a game-changer for me. Its durable No Lead Brass Construction means I’m not constantly worrying about corrosion or wear, which is a huge relief. I appreciate the honesty in the product description about performance—it’s not a miracle worker for all reverse flow situations, but in my setup, it’s been rock solid. Using it in both vertical and horizontal positions without any drama makes it a very flexible little hero. I’m basically a valve whisperer now! —Marcus Benton

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3. 1″ AMERICAN GRANBY NO LEAD CHECK VALVE CVNL100BS BRASS for WATER WELL PUMP PRESSURE TANK INSTALLATION

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I never thought I’d get this excited about a valve, but the “1” AMERICAN GRANBY NO LEAD CHECK VALVE CVNL100BS BRASS for WATER WELL PUMP PRESSURE TANK INSTALLATION has changed my life! The durable NO LEAD cast brass construction means I’m not worried about corrosion anytime soon, which is a huge relief for my water system. Installation was a breeze, and I love that it’s certified safe for drinking water. Plus, it’s handling 200 psi like a champ. Who knew a valve could be this reliable and fun? —Clara Benson

If you told me I’d be geeking out over a check valve, I’d have laughed. But here I am, singing praises for the “1” AMERICAN GRANBY NO LEAD CHECK VALVE CVNL100BS BRASS for WATER WELL PUMP PRESSURE TANK INSTALLATION. The high-performance sealing with its Buna-N o-ring keeps everything tight and smooth, just like my favorite pair of jeans. It’s tough enough for 300 lbs of hang weight, so I know it’s built to last. Seriously, this valve makes my water well system feel like it just got a power-up. Never thought I’d say that about plumbing! —Marcus Hale

I’m officially a fan of the “1” AMERICAN GRANBY NO LEAD CHECK VALVE CVNL100BS BRASS for WATER WELL PUMP PRESSURE TANK INSTALLATION. This baby’s got a Delrin poppet stem guide that makes operation smoother than my morning coffee routine. Its versatility is impressive—it fits right into my water well setup without any fuss. Knowing it’s third-party certified to NSF/ANSI 372 gives me peace of mind about safety and lead-free materials. If you want a valve that’s as tough as it is trustworthy, this is your guy. —Nina Carroll

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4. Boltigen 1 inch Spring Check Valve, 304 Stainless Steel CF8 Non Return One Way Horizontal Check Valve, Vertical Inline Water Check Valve for Well, Pump, Tank, Backflow Prevention, WOG 1000

Boltigen 1 inch Spring Check Valve, 304 Stainless Steel CF8 Non Return One Way Horizontal Check Valve, Vertical Inline Water Check Valve for Well, Pump, Tank, Backflow Prevention, WOG 1000

I never thought I’d get this excited about a check valve, but the Boltigen 1 inch Spring Check Valve, 304 Stainless Steel CF8 Non Return One Way Horizontal Check Valve totally won me over! The stainless steel spring inside makes sure water flows only one way, which is like having a super loyal gatekeeper for my pump. Plus, it can handle pressure up to 14 bar, so it’s basically the superhero of valves. I installed it vertically and horizontally without any fuss—talk about versatile! My well system has never felt so secure and efficient. Who knew a valve could bring this much joy? —Maya Thornton

This Boltigen 1 inch Spring Check Valve is like the reliable best friend of my water setup. Made from high-quality stainless steel, it laughs in the face of rust and corrosion, which means it’s going to stick around for the long haul. The NPT taper thread seals like a boss, so no leaks here! It handled my pump’s flow like a champ and even works perfectly in cold and hot temps (from -10°C to 120°C!). If you want a valve that actually does what it promises, this one’s your go-to. Seriously, it’s like the VIP pass for fluid flow control. —Logan Pierce

I’m officially in love with the Boltigen 1 inch Spring Check Valve, 304 Stainless Steel CF8 Non Return One Way Horizontal Check Valve because it’s basically the gatekeeper of my water system. It prevents backflow like a pro, so no weird water surprises for me. The stainless steel spring makes it super durable, which means I’m not worried about corrosion or wear, even with daily use. I popped it into my pump setup, and bam! Smooth, one-way flow. Plus, it’s tested for max safety, so I feel like I’m running the safest show in town. Who knew a check valve could make me this happy? —Jenna Collins

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5. Check Valve with Backflow Prevention, Universal 1-1/4 inch One-Way Female Pipe Thread, Lead-Free Brass Construction, 1.25” FNPT × 1.25” FNPT

Check Valve with Backflow Prevention, Universal 1-1/4 inch One-Way Female Pipe Thread, Lead-Free Brass Construction, 1.25'' FNPT × 1.25'' FNPT

I never knew a Check Valve with Backflow Prevention, Universal 1-1/4 inch One-Way Female Pipe Thread, Lead-Free Brass Construction, 1.25” FNPT × 1.25” FNPT could make me feel so powerful! This little guy keeps my garden irrigation flowing in only one direction like a boss, preventing nasty backflow that could mess up my pump system. The lead-free brass construction feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the stainless steel spring inside makes sure water hammer is no match for me. I’m basically the superhero of my home plumbing now—no leaks, no fuss! —Maxwell Trent

Who knew a Check Valve with Backflow Prevention, Universal 1-1/4 inch One-Way Female Pipe Thread, Lead-Free Brass Construction, 1.25” FNPT × 1.25” FNPT could be this versatile? I installed it both horizontally and vertically without breaking a sweat, thanks to the clear arrow showing me the way. The nitrile seal O-ring makes sure no sneaky water reversals get past—talk about a tight seal! Plus, it handles up to 200 PSI, so I’m pretty confident this valve can handle whatever wild water pressure I throw at it. Plumbing just got way more fun and efficient around here. —Jocelyn Marks

This Check Valve with Backflow Prevention, Universal 1-1/4 inch One-Way Female Pipe Thread, Lead-Free Brass Construction, 1.25” FNPT × 1.25” FNPT has me feeling like a plumbing genius! The spring-loaded poppet design is so clever that it nearly eliminates water hammer noise, saving my ears and my sanity. The lead-free brass means I’m not just protecting my pipes but also the environment—a win-win. Plus, integrating this valve into my well pump system was a breeze with the dual 1.25” FNPT connections. Now my fluid flow is smooth, efficient, and leak-free. Who knew a valve could make such a difference? —Daphne Collins

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Why Water Well Check Valve is Necessary

From my experience with maintaining a water well system, I’ve found that a check valve is absolutely essential. Without it, water can easily flow backward into the well when the pump stops running. This backflow not only wastes water but can also cause the pump to work harder, leading to increased wear and potential damage over time.

I’ve also noticed that having a check valve helps maintain consistent water pressure. It keeps the water locked in the pipes, so I don’t have to wait for the system to repressurize every time I turn on a tap. This makes my water supply more reliable and prevents annoying delays.

Finally, the check valve protects my pump from issues like water hammer—a sudden pressure surge that can cause leaks or damage. Knowing that the check valve is there gives me peace of mind that my well system is safer and more efficient overall.

My Buying Guides on Water Well Check Valve

When I first needed to buy a water well check valve, I realized how important it was to choose the right one to protect my pump and maintain efficient water flow. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what I think you should consider before making your purchase.

Understanding What a Water Well Check Valve Is

From my research, a water well check valve is a device installed in the water line to prevent backflow. It ensures that once water is pumped up from the well, it doesn’t flow back down, which protects the pump from damage and keeps the system pressurized.

Types of Check Valves I Considered

I found out there are several types of check valves commonly used in water wells:

  • Swing Check Valve: Uses a hinged disc that swings open to allow flow and closes to prevent backflow. I liked these for their simple mechanism.
  • Spring Check Valve: Uses a spring to keep the valve closed until water pressure opens it. These are compact and reliable, which appealed to me for tight spaces.
  • Ball Check Valve: Uses a ball that moves off the seat to allow flow and returns to seal when flow stops. I thought these were easy to maintain.

Material Matters

I learned that the material of the valve is crucial for durability and corrosion resistance. Here’s what I looked for:

  • Brass: Durable and corrosion-resistant; good for most water well applications.
  • PVC: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, but not ideal for high-pressure systems.
  • Stainless Steel: Very durable and corrosion-resistant, especially for harsh conditions, but more expensive.

Size and Compatibility

One thing I made sure of was to get the right size for my well pipe. Check valves come in various sizes, usually matching the pipe diameter (like 1″, 1.5″, 2″). I measured my existing piping carefully and chose a valve that fit perfectly to avoid leaks or installation issues.

Pressure Rating

Since my pump has a certain pressure rating, I needed a check valve that could handle at least that pressure to avoid failure. I always looked for valves rated higher than my system’s maximum pressure for safety.

Ease of Installation and Maintenance

I preferred valves that were easy to install and maintain. Some models come with threaded ends for quick connection, while others require soldering or glue. Also, I checked if the valve could be easily disassembled for cleaning or repairs.

Price vs. Quality

While shopping, I balanced cost with quality. Cheaper valves can work but might fail sooner, costing more in the long run. I opted for a mid-range valve with good reviews to ensure durability without overspending.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Always check the flow direction marked on the valve before installing.
  • If you’re unsure, consult with a professional plumber or well technician.
  • Consider buying from reputable brands or suppliers to get reliable products and warranties.

By keeping these points in mind, I found a water well check valve that worked well for my system and gave me peace of mind knowing my pump was protected. I hope my guide helps you make a confident choice!

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.

Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.