Foot Valve in Kenya | Sparks Plumbing

A foot valve keeps a surface pump primed by holding water in the suction pipe.

It suits wells, tanks and rivers. Therefore, it is fitted on most suction-lift pump sets.

What is a foot valve?

A check valve, or non-return valve, lets fluid flow one way only. It opens with forward flow and closes automatically when flow stops or reverses.

Swing, lift, disc, spring and double check types exist. A foot valve is a check valve with a strainer, fitted at the bottom of a pump suction pipe to keep the pump primed.

Key terms explained

Non-return valve (NRV): Another name for a check valve.
Cracking pressure: The pressure needed to open the valve.
Foot valve: A check valve with a strainer at the end of a suction pipe.
PN rating: Pressure Nominal: the pressure class in bar at reference temperature, such as PN16.
Class 150 and 800: American pressure classes. Class 800 is common for small forged steel valves.
End connection: How the valve joins the pipe: threaded, flanged, wafer, socket weld or clamp.

Features and benefits

Stops reverse flow automatically.
Protects pumps and meters.
Several patterns for different duties.
Threaded and flanged types.
No power or handle needed.

Technical specifications

Product	Foot valve
Includes	Strainer
Sizes	Confirm with quote
Supplier	Sparks Plumbing Experts Ltd, Nairobi
Supplier	Sparks Plumbing Experts Ltd, Nairobi

Sizes, grades and ratings depend on stock and model. Tell us what you need, and we will confirm before you order.

Applications of a foot valve

Pump discharge. Stops backflow when the pump stops.
Pump suction. Foot valves keep pumps primed.
Boreholes. Holds the water column in the riser.
Water heaters. Stops hot water flowing back.
Booster sets. Prevents backflow between pumps.
Backflow protection. Double checks protect mains water.
Steam condensate. Stops condensate backflow.
Compressed air. Stops air flowing back to compressors.
Irrigation. Holds water in sloping mains.
Fire pumps. Prevents reverse flow in fire systems.
Tank filling. Stops tanks draining back.
Dosing lines. Stops chemicals flowing back.

How to choose and install

Install with flow in the arrow direction.
Choose spring types for vertical lines.
Use a foot valve with strainer on suction lifts.
Fit a double check where mains water needs backflow protection.
Size by pipe size, not pump outlet alone.

Why choose Sparks Plumbing Experts

Valves, flanges and gaskets togetherComplete a pipeline joint with matching valves, flanges, gaskets and bolts.
Pressure-rated optionsMany items come in PN16, class 150 or class 300 ratings, so you can match the line.
Stainless and carbon steelChoose stainless for corrosion resistance or carbon steel where it suits the service.
Plant maintenance sparesKeep critical spares on hand for planned shutdowns and breakdowns.
Visit or collect in NairobiOur store is at KCB Building, Enterprise Road, in the Industrial Area, so you can see parts before you buy or collect your order.
Quotes your wayAsk for prices by phone, WhatsApp, email or the online quote form, whichever suits you on site.
Over 1,600 products in one placeOur catalogue covers 55 categories, so one supplier can handle most of your parts list.
Help choosing the right partSend a nameplate photo, a drawing or the old part, and we help you match size and specification.
Single items or project quantitiesWe price a single replacement part just as readily as a full site order.
Supply across East AfricaWe serve customers across Kenya, and we also supply buyers in Uganda and Tanzania.

Related products and accessories

Browse more: Valves · Flanges · Gaskets · Industrial Piping Systems.

Ordering from Sparks Plumbing Experts

We supply customers across Kenya, and we also serve buyers in Uganda and Tanzania. You can collect from our store at KCB Building, Enterprise Road, Nairobi, or ask us about delivery to your site. Send your quantities and specifications, and we will reply with prices and availability.

Request a Quote WhatsApp 0726 086 895

Frequently asked questions

Why does my pump need a foot valve?

Without it, water drains back and the pump loses prime.

What details do you need to quote check valves?

Tell us the size, end connection, pressure rating, body material and the fluid and temperature. A photo of the old part, a nameplate or a drawing also helps. Then call or WhatsApp 0726 086 895, or use the quote form on this page.

Do you deliver check valves outside Nairobi?

Yes. We supply customers across Kenya, and we also serve buyers in Uganda and Tanzania. Delivery or courier arrangements are agreed when you confirm the order.

How much does a check valve cost in Kenya?

The price depends on the type, size, material, pressure rating and quantity. Therefore, send your list with a quote request and we will reply with current figures.

What does PN16 mean on a valve?

It means a nominal pressure rating of 16 bar at reference temperature. At higher temperatures the allowed pressure is lower, so check the rating table.