Answer
A check valve is extremely important any time water is being lifted vertically. It prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit.
I would suggest listening to the valve when the sump pump is running. If you hear water flowing back down after the pump has cycled, it would be best to replace.
A faulty check valve causes your sump pump to work harder because it keeps pumping a portion of the same water.
To make things simple, if you're replacing your sump pump, replace your check valve too, or at least keep a spare on hand.
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