What is the purpose of a check valve in an irrigation system?

The purpose of a check valve in an irrigation system is to permit water flow in one direction only. This is crucial for preventing backflow, which can occur due to changes in pressure within the system. By ensuring that water can only move forward and not retreat, check valves help maintain the integrity of the irrigation system and protect against contamination of the water source. Without check valves, the potential for backflow could introduce unwanted substances back into the irrigation supply, compromising both the health of the plants being irrigated and the quality of the water source. The design of a check valve effectively addresses this issue and is a vital component of proper irrigation practices.