What Is a Foot Valve?

A foot valve is a type of check valve installed at the bottom (foot) of a suction pipe in pumping systems. Its main job is to keep the pump primed by preventing water from flowing backward when the pump is turned off.

What Is a Foot Valve?

A foot valve is a one-way (non-return) valve combined with a strainer.
It is installed at the end of a pump’s suction line, usually inside a:

• Well

• Water tank

• Pond

• River

• Storage container

When the pump operates, the valve opens and allows water to flow upward into the pump. When the pump stops, the valve closes to maintain suction, preventing the water column from draining back down.

Key Functions of a Foot Valve

1. Prevents Backflow

Stops water from flowing backward into the source when the pump stops.

2. Maintains Pump Prime

Keeps the suction line full of water so the pump doesn’t run dry or need re-priming.

3. Filters Debris

The built-in strainer prevents leaves, sand, and debris from entering the pump.

Where Foot Valves Are Used

Foot valves are common in:

• Deep wells

• Shallow wells

• Irrigation systems

• Groundwater pumping

• Industrial fluid transfer

• Agricultural water supply

• Rainwater harvesting systems

Any system using a suction pump benefits from a foot valve.

Foot Valve Materials

• Brass – Common for wells; corrosion-resistant

• Stainless steel – For corrosive or heavy-duty applications

• PVC/Plastic – Lightweight, economical, for irrigation or low-pressure systems

Advantages of Foot Valves

• Prevents loss of pump prime

• Protects pump from damage

• Reduces energy consumption

• Improves system efficiency

• Extends pump lifespan

Foot Valve vs. Check Valve