Check valve necessary?

[Anna94]

Is a check valve really necessary if the air pump is inside my tank stand/cabinet? I’m just worried about restricted airflow with using a check valve.

 

[ZxC]

You'll be wishing you used one when a siphon is created during a power outage.

I'm not saying that it will occur, but it could.

 

[V227]

^^^^^^^^ +1 ^^^^^^^

 

[digitalczar]

Or place your air pump above the top level of your water. Without an opening below the level of your water - gravity will not draw out your water.

 

[Moncrief2315]

I have them on all my pumps. We have power outages lots of times where I live. I’ve never noticed any restricted air flow and if there was it wasn’t enough to make a difference. Better safe then sorry. $1.50 part or $1000’s in damage.

 

[ghyti]

If the pump is above the water level a check valve is not necessary. If the pump is below the water level then it is absolutely necessary.