This guide explains how to clear the debris around the flapper of a Spring Flapper Check Valve. A check valve relies on a tight seal to close off the valve and prevent water backflow when the pump is shut off. If debris get caught in the flapper seal, it has to be cleared out to prevent backflow leakage.
1. TYPES OF SPRING FLAPPER CHECK VALVES - This picture shows the two popular styles of Spring Flapper Check Valve. Both provide access to the flapper mechanism from the top of the valve. One is screwed down with 8 screws. The other is secured with a more convenient twist on Cover Nut. Although this guide is written with references to the Cover Nut version, it is also applicable for the 8-screw version.
2. REMOVE COVER NUT - Twist the Cover Nut counter-clockwise and lift it off the top of the Check Valve.
3. LIFT OFF COVER/FLAPPER - Lift the cover off the top of the Check Valve. You may have to pry it a little to get it started. The Flapper is attached to the bottom side of the cover and will come out with the cover.
4. CLEAR DEBRIS - Clear any debris away from the inside of the valve and around the Flapper and its spring.
5. LUBRICATE O-RING - Turn the Valve Cover over and inspect the O-ring. Replace the O-ring if broken or stretched. Lubricate the O-ring with a small amount of silicon-based lubricant. Do not use oil based lubricant like vaseline.
6. REPLACE COVER/FLAPPER - Fold the Flapper down and replace it and the cover into the top of the valve. Make sure the flow arrow is going in the correct direction. Make sure the O-ring is set properly and that the slots on the cover line up with the tabs on the valve body.
7. HOLD COVER - Hold the cover on the valve. There may be a tendency for the Flapper to spring the cover off.
8. REPLACE COVER NUT - While holding the cover in place, screw the Cover Nut onto the top of the valve clockwise.
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