Are you a homeowner looking for information about dishwasher check valve? These valves are important because they prevent dangerous and unclean backflow water from reentering your dishwasher after the water drains.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about buying and installing a valve in 2023.
Dishwasher Check Valve Guide
What is a Dishwasher Check Valve?
A dishwasher check valve is a one way valve that attaches to the drain hose and drain line. It prevents dirty water, food and other backflow from reentering the dishwasher when the water is draining.
They are important because backflow can carry old food, dirty soapy water and other contaminants back into your dishwasher which will re-dirty your dishes and can cause a health hazard due to bacteria in the drain lines
How Does It Work?
Dishwasher check valves work as one-way water valves. When the drain pump pushes the water out of the dishwasher, the water inlet valve opens and allows water to pass – but not flow the opposite way due to a pressure difference inside the valve. After the pump deactivates and the water stops draining, a flapper valve closes inside the dishwasher, and a smaller valve closes inside the check valve.
Where To Buy?
There are a number of places you can buy a check valve for your dishwasher. The best places is on Amazon because you will have the widest selection of brandels and models at the lowest prices. other good places are local hardware stores like Home Depot, Lowes and Ace Hardware.
You can also buy a valve directly from many local plumbers and they will come to your home and install it – just remember they may charge extra!
Best Brands and Models
If you are shopping for a new valve you are probably wondering what brand and model you should buy. Most check valves are not over expensive – but they do cost at least $100 so it is important to get a good valve and not have to buy a replacement in 6 months.
Top Rated Whirlpool Check Valve
| What We Like |
|---|
| Works with almost all modern Whirlpool washers |
| Comes with a hose and check valve |
| Easy to install with tools around the house |
Whirlpool is one of the biggest name brands in the dishwasher industry – but from time to time the check valve will need replacing. Our top pick is the Whirlpool W10358302, it is easy to install and lasts about as long as the original part. This valve comes with a drain hose that attaches to the garbage disposal to destroy and solid food before it enters the drain line.
If you are experiencing backflow issues with your Whirlpool dishwasher we recommend this combo hose and valve!
Top Rated GE Dishwasher Check Valve
| What We Like |
|---|
| Works on all GE dishwashers |
| Highly dependable |
| Easy to install without professional help |
| Piston style design with spring makes backflow impossible |
Our pick for the best GE WD24X10018. This check valve is a piston style valve that fits almost all GE dishwashers made in the last 10 years. It is very durable and a single valve typically lasts 8 to 10 years before needing a replacement.
If you GE dishwashing machine is experiencing food debris and dirty water seeping back into your dishwasher this valve is the answer to your problems.
Dishwasher Check Valves vs Backflow Preventers
Most home dishwashers can use a check valve to prevent backflow in the water lines. If your home has a bad problem – or are in a commercial kitchen – you may need a backflow preventer. A backflow preventer will cost more than a check valve, but provides extra protection.
| Recommendation | Learn More |
|---|---|
| Backflow preventers vs check valves | How to pick between a check valve and backflow preventer |
| Installing a garden hose check valve | How to install a garden hose check valve |
| Best sump pump check valves | Top pump check valves of 2024 |
FAQ
Are check valves required on dishwashers?
Check valves are not required on a dishwasher but almost all brands include one in order to prevent backflow.
What does a dishwasher check valve do?
A check valve is responsible for preventing water from re-entering the dishwasher after the cycle ends.
How do you test a dishwasher check valve?
You can test your valve by running a cycle and seeing if any dirty water re-enters your washer – if the dishes are still dirty you might have a problem!