[nsanto17]

I used to have my old wahing machine drain into my main waste drain of my house. I think there was what seems to be a check valve or back flow valve before my main drain. I would imagine this stops the water from flowing back into my washing machine.

The check valve has not been used in two years and now i need to use it. I hooked everything up again and it appears the water never goes past the check valve.

I need to replace the check valve but my question is can i use any check valve that fits???

I can upload pics if you need me to.

 

[Akpsdvan]

A photo of the type of check valve that is in place would be good.
I know of check valves in potable water lines, but a drain line?

 

[VIPlumber]

Akpsdvan,
I think that what the OP is referring to is a washing machine that drains into a pump that will lift the water into the overhead sewer drains.

nsanto17,

Not sure what you mean by "use any check valve that fits"? Do you mean by brand name? I'd just go down to your local plumbing supply house and ask for an made in the USA (or Canada!) replacement check valve. I've heard too many horror stories about parts made elsewhere to trust anything else.

 

[Akpsdvan]

Oh that type... with the sump pump.......
That I have seen before... and have seen flapper checks and spring checks.

 

[AllanJ]

A check valve in the washing machine riser and trap, before it ties into the main drain, can slow the flow enough that it overflows onto the floor. You may not seal the washing machine hose into a drain pipe.

Check valves are sometimes put in drain lines when there s a danger of the sewer backing up into buildings during really wet weather.