Which component is commonly found in a pump discharge path to prevent backflow?

• A. Check valve
• B. Suction strainer
• C. Discharge elbow
• D. Impeller

Answer: (A)

Backflow prevention in a pump discharge path is achieved with a check valve. This one-way valve sits in the discharge line and allows fluid to leave the pump but blocks fluid trying to flow back toward the pump when downstream pressure drops or the pump stops. This helps keep the pump primed and maintains system pressure. The suction strainer is placed on the suction side to trap debris before it enters the pump, not to stop reverse flow. The discharge elbow simply redirects flow, and the impeller is the rotating element that adds energy to move the fluid. So the check valve is the component that prevents backflow.