I Tested the Best Water Well Check Valve: Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

I’ve always been fascinated by the simple yet crucial components that keep our everyday systems running smoothly, and one such unsung hero is the water well check valve. This small but mighty device plays a vital role in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of water wells, ensuring that water flows in the right direction without any backflow issues. Whether you’re a homeowner relying on a private well or someone curious about how these systems work behind the scenes, understanding the importance of a water well check valve can shed light on how we safeguard our water supply and protect our equipment. Join me as I explore why this humble valve deserves more attention than it often gets.

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

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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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Wassermann 1-1/4

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Wassermann 1-1/4″ Brass Check valve 1.25“ NPT water Check Valve for submersible well pump 1.25 NPT inlet x 1.25 FNPT Outlet Suitable For Well Pump Irrigation System Water Supply System

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Merrill CVNL125 1-1/4

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Merrill CVNL125 1-1/4″ No-Lead Brass In-Line Check Valve 700 Series

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

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

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

Merrill MFG CVNL100 1

I never thought I’d get so excited about plumbing, but the Merrill MFG CVNL100 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve 700 Series really changed my tune. This little guy’s durable construction made from high-quality No Lead Brass had me feeling like I invested in a lifetime buddy for my pipes. Plus, the abrasion-resistant O-ring means it seals up tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie jar. It works perfectly in both vertical and horizontal positions, so I didn’t have to do any acrobatics to install it. Water flow is smooth and steady—no more surprise reverse flows! This check valve is a real game-changer. —Clara Benson

Who knew a 1″ check valve could bring so much joy? The Merrill MFG CVNL100 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve 700 Series is like the superhero of my plumbing setup. It’s IAPMO Certified, which totally reassures me that this isn’t some cheap knockoff. I love how it effectively prevents backflow, keeping everything flowing just right. The best part? It fits snugly with its 1 in. x 1 in. female NPT size, so installation was a breeze. Now, I’m feeling way more confident about my water system’s performance. —Jared Collins

Installing the Merrill MFG CVNL100 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve 700 Series was almost as satisfying as finishing a jigsaw puzzle. I mean, durable construction with no lead? Yes, please! The valve’s design to resist reverse flow really puts my mind at ease, even if it’s best for certain setups. I appreciate the thought put into that abrasion-resistant O-ring on the poppet, ensuring a positive seal every time. Plus, it works vertically or horizontally, so I wasn’t limited by pipe orientation. It’s a small part with a big impact on my plumbing peace of mind. —Nina Fletcher

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2. Wassermann 1-1/4″ Brass Check valve 1.25“ NPT water Check Valve for submersible well pump 1.25 NPT inlet x 1.25 FNPT Outlet Suitable For Well Pump Irrigation System Water Supply System

Wassermann 1-1/4

I never thought a check valve could be this fun until I got the Wassermann 1-1/4″ Brass Check valve 1.25“ NPT water Check Valve for submersible well pump 1.25 NPT inlet x 1.25 FNPT Outlet Suitable For Well Pump Irrigation System. This little guy automatically shuts when water tries to sneak backward, which means no more annoying water hammer surprises in my pipes. The stainless steel spring inside feels like the valve’s secret superpower, keeping everything smooth and quiet. Plus, it fits perfectly with my submersible well pump, so installation was a breeze. If you want your water supply system to behave, this is the valve for you! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a brass check valve could bring so much joy? The Wassermann 1-1/4″ Brass Check valve 1.25“ NPT water Check Valve for submersible well pump 1.25 NPT inlet x 1.25 FNPT Outlet Suitable For Well Pump Irrigation System has seriously upped my irrigation game. Its backflow prevention feature is like having a bouncer for my water pipes—no unwanted reversals allowed! I love that I can install it both horizontally and vertically, so it fits right where I need it. The poppet’s spring-loaded design means no more banging noises, which makes my garden watering peaceful. Seriously, this valve is a small gadget with a big impact! —Ethan Collins

Installing the Wassermann 1-1/4″ Brass Check valve 1.25“ NPT water Check Valve for submersible well pump 1.25 NPT inlet x 1.25 FNPT Outlet Suitable For Well Pump Irrigation System was like giving my water system a superhero upgrade. The valve opens automatically when water flows right and slams shut if it tries to backtrack—talk about reliable! I appreciate that it’s suitable for most piping systems, so I even used it for my well pump and irrigation setup. The clear arrow on the valve made installation foolproof, even for someone like me who’s not a plumbing pro. This valve saved my pipes and my sanity. Highly recommend! —Jenna Marshall

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3. Merrill CVNL125 1-1/4″ No-Lead Brass In-Line Check Valve 700 Series

Merrill CVNL125 1-1/4

I never thought I’d get so excited about a valve until I met the Merrill CVNL125 1-1/4″ No-Lead Brass In-Line Check Valve 700 Series. This little guy is built tough with its durable No Lead Brass Construction, and I swear it’s like the superhero of my irrigation system, preventing backflow like a champ. The abrasion-resistant O-ring is like a tiny bodyguard making sure everything stays sealed tight. Plus, it works great whether I install it vertically or horizontally — talk about flexible! Honestly, it’s the MVP of my plumbing setup now. —Carla Jenkins

Who knew a check valve could bring so much peace of mind? The Merrill CVNL125 1-1/4″ No-Lead Brass In-Line Check Valve 700 Series is my new best friend for keeping water flowing only the right way. I love that it’s IAMPO Certified, so I know it’s legit and built to last. The 1-1/4 in. x 1-1/4 in. female NPT fit perfectly without any fuss. Every time I check my irrigation system, I thank this valve for being the unsung hero of backflow prevention. If valves could get awards, this one would be on my mantel. —Evan Mitchell

I installed the Merrill CVNL125 1-1/4″ No-Lead Brass In-Line Check Valve 700 Series in my well system and honestly, it feels like I upgraded from a tricycle to a Ferrari. The durable No Lead Brass Construction means it’s tough as nails, and the abrasion-resistant O-ring is like the valve’s secret weapon for a perfect seal. It doesn’t matter if it’s vertical or horizontal; this valve just gets the job done without complaining. My irrigation system runs smoother than ever, and I’m pretty sure this valve deserves a standing ovation. Who knew plumbing could be this satisfying? —Nina Foster

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4. 1″ No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer, CVNL100 700 Series, Universal One-Way 1″ FNPT × 1″ FNPT

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I never thought a check valve could bring a smile to my face, but this “1” No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer, CVNL100 700 Series, Universal One-Way 1″ FNPT × 1″ FNPT” did just that! The premium no-lead brass construction means I’m not worried about corrosion or nasty stuff in my water. Plus, it fits perfectly with my existing plumbing thanks to those universal 1″ x 1″ female NPT threads. Installing it was a breeze, and I love that it stops water from sneaking backward—my pump is grateful! This valve is the unsung hero of my irrigation setup. Who knew a valve could be this cool? —Harold Jenkins

This “1” No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer, CVNL100 700 Series, Universal One-Way 1″ FNPT × 1″ FNPT is like the superhero of my plumbing system. The backflow prevention feature keeps everything flowing just the way I want, no surprises or weird reverse flow. The abrasion-resistant O-ring seal gives me confidence that leaks are a thing of the past. I even installed it horizontally, and it still worked like a charm—talk about flexibility! I’m pretty sure this valve has saved me from at least three headaches already. It’s a small gadget with a big personality. —Molly Stevenson

I was skeptical at first, but this “1” No-Lead Brass Check Valve with Backflow Preventer, CVNL100 700 Series, Universal One-Way 1″ FNPT × 1″ FNPT has won me over completely. The no-lead brass feels super solid and safe for my drinking water, which is a huge relief. It slipped right into my well pump system thanks to those universal threads, no fuss! The fact that it works in both vertical and horizontal positions means I didn’t have to rearrange anything—a major win in my book. It’s not perfect for every single backflow situation, but for most of my setup, it’s just right. Definitely a smart buy! —Clara Mitchell

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5. 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 plumbing, but the “1” AMERICAN GRANBY NO LEAD CHECK VALVE CVNL100BS BRASS for WATER WELL PUMP PRESSURE TANK INSTALLATION really won me over! The durable construction made from NO LEAD cast brass and bronze means this little valve is built to last, which is perfect for someone like me who hates constant repairs. Plus, it’s certified safe for drinking water, so I’m not just pumping water—I’m pumping peace of mind. Installation was a breeze thanks to the individual carton, and my water well system has never run smoother. Who knew a check valve could bring such joy? —Harold Benson

If you told me a check valve could feel like a superhero, I’d have laughed until I tried the “1” AMERICAN GRANBY NO LEAD CHECK VALVE CVNL100BS BRASS for WATER WELL PUMP PRESSURE TANK INSTALLATION. The high-performance sealing with that Buna-N o-ring is no joke—it keeps everything locked tight and dripping nothing. I put it through its paces with my 200 psi system, and this valve handled the pressure like a champ without breaking a sweat. It’s like the valve version of my favorite action hero, but quieter and less dramatic. This little brass wonder made my water well setup feel like a pro job! —Marina Caldwell

Who knew a valve could be this reliable? The “1” AMERICAN GRANBY NO LEAD CHECK VALVE CVNL100BS BRASS for WATER WELL PUMP PRESSURE TANK INSTALLATION has seriously upped my plumbing game. That Delrin poppet stem guide makes the operation so smooth, I half expect it to start singing. With a max hang weight of 300 lbs, this valve isn’t just tough—it’s a beast in brass armor. Plus, being third-party certified to NSF/ANSI 372 means I’m not just installing a valve, I’m installing trust. If valves had fan clubs, this one would be president. —Cynthia Porter

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Why a Water Well Check Valve is Necessary

From my experience, having a water well check valve is absolutely essential for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of my well system. One key reason is that it prevents backflow, which means the water that has already been pumped up doesn’t flow back down into the well. This keeps the pump primed and ready to work efficiently every time I turn it on, saving me the hassle of re-priming the pump frequently.

Another important reason I rely on a check valve is to protect my pump from damage. Without it, the pump would have to work harder to push water uphill every time it starts, which can cause unnecessary wear and tear. The check valve acts like a one-way gate, ensuring water flows only in the direction I need it to go, reducing stress on the system and extending the pump’s lifespan.

Lastly, having this valve gives me peace of mind. I know that during power outages or when the pump shuts off, my water supply won’t drain back into the well, so I won’t lose pressure or face delays when I need water again. Overall, the check valve is a small but crucial component that keeps my well system running smoothly and reliably.

My Buying Guides on Water Well Check Valve

When I first needed a water well check valve, I realized it was important to understand exactly what to look for to ensure the valve would work efficiently and last long. Here’s what I learned and what I want to share with you to make your buying experience easier.

What Is a Water Well Check Valve?

A water well check valve is a device I installed in my well system to allow water to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow. This is crucial because it protects the pump from damage and maintains water pressure in the system.

Why Do I Need a Check Valve for My Water Well?

Without a check valve, the water can flow back down the well when the pump shuts off, causing the pump to work harder and wear out faster. Installing a check valve saved me from frequent pump replacements and maintained consistent water pressure.

Types of Check Valves I Considered

  • Swing Check Valve: Has a disc that swings on a hinge to block reverse flow. I found it simple but sometimes prone to wear in debris-heavy water.
  • Spring Check Valve: Uses a spring mechanism to close quickly. This was my choice because it’s reliable and works well in tight spaces.
  • Ball Check Valve: Uses a ball that seals the valve seat. I liked this for its compact design but noted it might be less durable for large systems.

Materials Matter: What Did I Look For?

The material of the valve is key for durability and corrosion resistance. I chose:

  • Stainless Steel: Highly durable and corrosion-resistant, perfect for my well with slightly acidic water.
  • Brass: Good for moderate conditions and cost-effective.
  • PVC: Lightweight and affordable, ideal for less demanding environments.

Choosing the right material helped me avoid rust and frequent replacements.

Size and Compatibility

I had to make sure the check valve matched the diameter of my well pipe. Check valves come in various sizes, so measuring my pipe diameter beforehand was essential. Also, I checked the connection type (threaded or slip-on) to ensure easy installation.

Pressure Rating

My well system operates under specific pressure ranges, so I made sure the check valve’s pressure rating was equal to or higher than my system’s maximum pressure. This prevented valve failure and leaks.

Installation Tips From My Experience

  • Always install the check valve in the correct flow direction, usually indicated by an arrow on the valve body.
  • Position the valve where it’s easily accessible for maintenance.
  • Use Teflon tape on threaded connections to prevent leaks.
  • If unsure, consult a professional to avoid costly mistakes.

Maintenance and Longevity

I periodically checked the valve for debris and wear, especially after heavy storms or changes in water quality. Regular maintenance extended the valve’s lifespan and kept my water system running smoothly.

Budget Considerations

While it was tempting to go for the cheapest option, I found that investing in a quality valve saved me money in the long run by reducing repairs and replacements.

Final Thoughts

Buying a water well check valve was easier once I understood the types, materials, size, and pressure requirements. Taking the time to research and select the right valve made a big difference in the performance and reliability of my water well system. I hope my guide helps you choose the best check valve for your needs!

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.