Non-Return Valves – Prevent Back-Flow with Trusted UK Solutions by AQUIKO

Non-return valves (NRVs) are essential components in drainage, flood-defence and water-management systems. Their role is simple but critical: allow water to flow in one direction while preventing it from coming back the other way. Whether you’re protecting homes and land from flooding, safeguarding infrastructure or ensuring efficient drainage networks, AQUIKO supplies dependable non-return valves designed and manufactured for UK conditions.

At AQUIKO, we offer a complete range of non-return flow-control products, including flap valves, side-hung doors, pipe-mounted solutions and the highly innovative WaStop inline non-return valve.

What Is a Non-Return Valve?

A non-return valve is a passive flow-control device that opens automatically when water flows in the desired direction, and closes when flow reverses. This prevents:

  • Flood water backing into drainage systems

  • Tidal or river water pushing into outfalls

  • Sewer surcharge entering properties or land

  • Damage to infrastructure caused by reverse pressure

Non-return valves operate without power, relying instead on pressure difference, hinge mechanisms or internal membranes depending on the design.

Why Use a Non-Return Valve?

Installing a non-return valve protects assets, reduces downtime and helps meet compliance standards for flood-defence and drainage infrastructure. Common benefits include:

  • Prevents back-flow during storms, high-tide events or sewer surcharging

  • Protects land, property and infrastructure from expensive damage

  • Reduces maintenance demand, especially compared to mechanical or powered systems

  • Supports flow efficiency — modern HDPE designs offer smooth, low-resistance operation

  • Eases installation — lightweight, corrosion-resistant materials eliminate heavy lifting and reduce site time

AQUIKO valves are engineered for long service life, minimal maintenance and excellent corrosion resistance — making them ideal for the UK’s diverse coastal, tidal, inland and industrial environments.

AQUIKO Non-Return Valve Solutions

AQUIKO supplies multiple types of non-return valves to suit different installation environments, flow profiles and performance requirements.

1. Wall-Mounted Flap Valves

Our most common non-return solution, ideal for concrete headwalls, outfalls and embankments.
Benefits include:

    • Lightweight HDPE construction

    • Low head-loss

  • Fast installation

  • Long service life with minimal maintenance

2. Pipe-Mounted Flap Valves

Designed for in-pipe installation where no headwall or flat face is available.
Ideal for:

  • Retrofit applications

  • Tight sites

  • Sewer and drainage pipelines

3. Side-Hung Doors

A flap-style non-return valve mounted on a side hinge rather than top-hinged flap.
Perfect for:

  • Improved access

  • Easier inspection

  • Enhanced fish passage and environmental compatibility

4. Square & Bespoke Flap Valves

For non-standard openings or unusual geometries.
Suitable for:

  • Culverts

  • Large chambers

  • Rectangular outfalls

5. WaStop Inline Non-Return Valve

A game-changing inline NRV that uses a flexible membrane to provide instant back-flow prevention with extremely low forward resistance.
Why choose WaStop:

  • Works in both low and high flow

  • Absolutely no mechanical hinges or plates

  • Perfect for sewers, surcharging networks, tidal risk and industrial flows

  • Easily installed inside pipes with no major civils work

WaStop is often the best option where traditional flap valves either cannot be fitted or struggle due to debris, tight installation environments or surcharge pressures.

Which Non-Return Valve Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on:

  • Where the valve is installed (headwall, pipe, channel, chamber)

  • Expected reverse pressure (head pressure rating)

  • Flow rates and solids load

  • Environmental exposure (tidal, freshwater, wastewater, brackish)

  • Access requirements for inspection or maintenance

  • Geometry — circular pipe, square opening, large culvert

Our team can guide you to the most suitable option — whether that’s a lightweight HDPE flap valve or the WaStop inline NRV.

Ordering, Support & UK Availability

AQUIKO keeps standard non-return valves in UK stock for rapid dispatch, with bespoke sizes manufactured to order.
We support contractors and resellers with:

  • Technical drawings

  • Sizing assistance

  • Datasheets and installation guidance

  • UK-wide delivery

  • Bespoke material and dimension options

Talk to Our Team

Unsure which non-return valve you need? Our engineers can help with specification, sizing and installation support.
01777 819 734
info@aquiko.co.uk

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