Wells, Sump Pumps and Septic Sewage Systems - Bad check valve or WHAT?

I have a sump pump as part of my basement water proofing. Lately the well has been stinking up the house and when I investigated, I found that the water in it was very dirty. After pouring some water in the well to clean it out by cycling it, I found that the pump would take most of the water out of the well and then the well would slowly fill back up. Quick thinking on part said I had a bad check valve, so I immediately removed the check valve and purchased a new one. To my disappointment the same think happened, so I just figured I was the lucky one that bought a bad check valve so I bought another one...and the same thing is still happening.

Now the only thing I can think of is that I am not getting enough back pressure to properly seal the check valve? The pump sits in about a 2 foot deep well and immediately off the pump is the check valve. Within a foot off the top of the check valve the drain lines makes a 90 degree bend (it is horizontal at this point) where it runs about 4 feet before going back vertical to be drained out of the basement. I can think of no other reason for the check valve to not work properly than back pressure?

anyone ever experience this problem and have any other suggestions and recommendations for repair?

Thanks in advance
jd

Hi, and welcome to the forums.


Did you get the check valve with the spring in it?

I don't think the water is draining back out the pipe. Could it be coming in through maybe a drain tile?

Try watching it, and see if you can tell where the water is coming from.



Travis