Check Valves

(24 products)

Shop our selection of pool check valves and find the right fit for your plumbing setup. Check valves are a critical component in any pool system where backflow needs to be prevented — keeping water moving in one direction and protecting your equipment from damage. EZ Pools carries pool check valves from Jandy, Pentair, Hayward, and more to fit most residential pipe sizes and configurations. Browse our pool check valves and get free 2-day shipping now and keep your pool plumbing protected all season long!

Quick Links
Ball Valves Ball Valves Diverter Valves Diverter Valves Unions and Fittings Unions and Fittings
View as
CMP 25830-500-000 Serviceable Check Valve 1/4 lb 2 in S x 2.5 in SPG - Top

What Does a Pool Check Valve Do?

A check valve is a one-way valve that allows water to flow in a single direction while preventing it from flowing back the other way. In pool systems, check valves are most commonly used on suction lines to maintain pump prime, on chemical feeder lines to prevent backflow of pool water into the chemical supply, and on solar heating systems to keep water from draining back out of the panels when the pump shuts off.

Without a properly functioning check valve in these applications, you can end up with a pump that loses prime every time it shuts off, chemical lines that allow pool water to contaminate your feeder, or solar panels that drain completely between cycles — all of which create performance issues and can shorten equipment life. Check valves are a relatively inexpensive component that does a critical job, and a failed check valve is often the root cause of problems that appear to be coming from elsewhere in the system.

Choosing the Right Replacement Check Valve

Check valves come in several styles — spring-loaded, flap, and ball-type — each suited to different applications. Spring-loaded check valves are the most common in residential pool plumbing and provide reliable backflow prevention with minimal flow restriction. Flap-style valves work well in low-pressure applications but can wear out faster under heavy use. Confirm which style your system uses before replacing to ensure proper function.

Pipe size is the primary spec to match when ordering a replacement. Most residential pools use 1.5" or 2" check valves, though some chemical feeder and solar applications use smaller sizes. Material matters too — standard PVC works for most applications, but CPVC is the better choice for chemical feeder lines where exposure to concentrated chemicals is a concern. EZ Pools carries check valves in a range of styles, sizes, and materials to cover most residential pool plumbing needs.

Pentair 263060 FullFloXF 2-Way CPVC Check Valve 2.5 x 3 in

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my pool check valve is bad?
Common signs of a failed check valve include a pump that loses prime every time it shuts off, water draining back out of solar panels between cycles, or chemical feeders that allow pool water to backflow into the supply line. If you are experiencing any of these issues and other causes have been ruled out, the check valve is likely the culprit.
Where is the check valve located on a pool system?
Check valve placement depends on your system. They are most commonly found on the suction line before the pump, on chemical feeder return lines, and on solar heating supply and return lines. Check your pool equipment manual or existing plumbing diagram if you are unsure where your check valve is located.
Can I install a pool check valve myself?
Yes - replacing a pool check valve is a straightforward job for most homeowners comfortable with basic plumbing. Make sure to note the flow direction arrow on the valve body and install it correctly - a check valve installed backwards will block flow entirely. Turn off the pump and drain the relevant line before starting.
What is the difference between a PVC and CPVC pool check valve?
PVC check valves work well for standard pool plumbing applications. CPVC is a higher-grade material with better chemical and temperature resistance, making it the preferred choice for chemical feeder lines where concentrated sanitizers or acids may be present. When in doubt, CPVC is the safer choice for any application involving direct chemical contact.
Do I need a check valve on my pool pump?
Not always, but a check valve on the suction line is highly recommended if your pump frequently loses prime after shutting off. This is especially common in above-ground pools or systems where the pump is positioned above the water level. A check valve on the suction line keeps water in the pipe and allows the pump to reprime quickly on startup.

Related Articles

View all
  • pool clarifiers vs pool flocculants
    Pool Flocculant vs. Pool Clarifier

    In maintaining a sparkling clear swimming pool, understanding the differences between flocculants and clarifiers is crucial. Many pool owners often grapple with choosing the right chemical to tackle murky water,...

    EZ Pools |

Shop Check Valves

Shop our selection of pool check valves and find the right fit for your pool plumbing system. From spring-loaded to flap-style options in PVC and CPVC, EZ Pools carries check valves from Jandy, Pentair, Hayward, and more in a range of sizes. Browse our pool check valves and get free 2-day shipping now and keep your pool plumbing protected from backflow all season long!

Shop Now
Back to top