A Foot Valve is a spring loaded valve that is installed at the end of a pump suction line. Foot valves also have a strainer attached to stop debris from restricting the valve from closing. Since foot valves are continually submerged and therefore not easily accessible, it is important to select a high quality valve. The valve helps to stop your pump from burning out by keeping it primed and is a very inexpensive way to do so. The Foot Valve is a type of check valve that is specifically designed for the end of pumps suction line.