- Check Valve
![Firewize Swing Check Valve (Backflow Prevention Device) Animation]()
A check valve is a type of valve commonly used in fire services such as automatic fire sprinkler systems, fire hydrant systems and fire hose reel systems to prevent water from flowing in the wrong direction. It can also act as a type of backflow prevention device, helping to maintain system pressure and prevent contamination of adjacent water supplies.
A check valve may be used in situations where it is necessary to ensure water flows in only one direction and to prevent reverse flow, which could cause damage or contamination. In fire systems, check valves are specifically used to:
- Maintain System Pressure: They help maintain pressure in fire suppression systems, ensuring that water is always available when needed.
- Fire Pump Discharge: Installed on the discharge side of a fire pump to prevent backflow when the pump stops operating.
- Prevent Backflow: Ensuring that water from fire protection systems does not flow back into the potable water supply, which is critical for preventing contamination.
- Isolation of interconnected Water Supplies: To isolate sections of a fire sprinkler system or to protect water supplies in interconnected systems, ensuring the availability and quality of the water in critical areas.
They are commonly used in pipes connected to fire sprinkler systems, standpipes, and hydrants to ensure the system functions reliably.