13 MM NON RETURN VALVE

Description

13mm Non Return Valve is a one-way flow valve for 13mm pipe that allows liquid to flow in one direction only, preventing back-flow, siphoning, and gravity drainage that can cause unwanted flooding, reservoir draining, or system contamination in hydroponic and irrigation systems. We have been supplying quality hydroponic fittings and plumbing components to UK growers since 2017, and the non return valve is one of the most important safety fittings in any system where gravity, pump failure, or power interruption could cause solution to flow in the wrong direction.

Why Non Return Valves Are Essential in Hydroponic Systems

In hydroponic systems with elevated reservoirs — such as AutoPot setups and gravity-fed drip systems — if the tank outlet is at a higher elevation than the growing trays, there is a risk that any failure or disconnection of a tube on the downhill side could allow the entire tank to drain by gravity into the growing area, flooding the root zone and potentially damaging the crop and the grow room floor. A non return valve fitted in the supply line between the tank outlet and the growing positions prevents this by allowing solution to flow down to the trays under normal operating conditions but blocking reverse flow if a pipe is disconnected or the system is depressurised. Non return valves are also essential in recirculating systems with submersible pumps to prevent back-siphoning through the pump when it is switched off, and in nutrient injection systems to prevent back-contamination of feed lines. The 13mm size is compatible with the main feed pipe sizes used in most UK grow room hydroponic systems.

How to Install the 13mm Non Return Valve

Fit the non return valve in-line in your 13mm supply pipe with the flow direction arrow on the valve body pointing in the direction of intended solution flow. Push the pipe firmly onto each barb until fully engaged. Test by running the system and then switching off — the valve should prevent back-flow when the pump stops or the supply is interrupted. If any back-flow is detected, check the valve orientation and re-seat the connections. Replace the valve if the internal check disc shows signs of fouling or failure that prevents it from seating correctly when flow reverses.

Browse our full range of hydroponic fittings, valves, and pipe accessories for complete, leak-free, and safe hydroponic system plumbing. The 13mm Non Return Valve is compatible with all standard 13mm hydroponic pipe and fitting systems.