You might be asking yourself: how does a PVC foot valve work? Well, first of all, it's a mechanical device that controls the direction of flow in a water pipe. A simple idea, yet it is actually quite clever. This simple device is installed at the pick up end of a water piping system, near the bottom. Then, when you want to draw water from a well, you open and close the foot valve.
Foot valves are essential for all kinds of applications, from sump pumps to river intakes, and from ponds to commercial trucks' pneumatic brake lines. The most common uses for foot valves are for industrial processes, but they're also suitable for backyard ponds. Regardless of where they're installed, you can be certain that a good quality foot valve will save you money and extend the life of a water pump.
A foot valve is different than a check valve. A foot valve has a NPT connection on one end and a strainer on the other. The sleeve prevents large debris from blocking the foot valve and damaging the water pump. It's crucial to clean out foot valves regularly to prevent any blockages. And if you're wondering if a foot valve is right for you, then read on.
When installing a foot valve, remember that the one-way nature of this valve means that it's a one-way check valve. It cannot open in the downward direction and therefore closes tightly when water passes through. The weight of water inside the pipe forces the valve to open and close. When you're done, make sure to drain the suction line. This is an essential part of any water pumping system.
Another part of a foot valve is the inlet strainer. This is important for filtering incoming water and protecting the valve. In some applications, an electric pump pumps water up from a lower level to a higher one. Unfortunately, it takes a lot of energy. In the event that the pump is turned off, the water may flow backwards, which is why a foot valve prevents backward flow and keeps a water column in the pipe.
The most basic type of foot valve is the ball type. This type uses a hinged rubber flapper to open the valve. When the pump is turned off, the weight of the water forces the flapper to close. When the pump is turned back on, the pressure on the inlet side reduces and the valve opens. However, it is important to note that this type of foot valve does not work in all positions.
The main benefit of using a foot valve is that it is easy to install. In addition to its ease of installation, it also provides a safe way to prevent damage from water hammer. If you install one, you'll be saving money on pump repairs. To learn more about foot valves, visit the Boshart Knowledge Base. It's filled with helpful technical information and guidelines for installing these valves in your water system.