Vacuum breakers prevent hazardous materials from entering plumbing systems during a loss of pressure. They are inexpensive and easy to install, but cannot be used in areas with airborne contaminants. Plumbers can determine if they are needed and where to install them. Hardware stores carry various styles and sizes.
In plumbing systems, a vacuum breaker is a safety device to prevent the accidental transfer of hazardous material into a plumbing system in the event of a loss of pressure. Plumbers can install these devices at various points in a plumbing system, and building codes may require people to fit their pipes with vacuum interrupters. It is important to note that vacuum breakers cannot be used in areas with airborne contaminants, as these contaminants could enter the system through the device.
The classic situation where a vacuum breaker becomes useful is when pressure is lost due to a power outage or other problem. If lines run dry, as can happen when people turn on faucets without realizing there’s no water available, a vacuum is created in the plumbing system. This can turn into a siphon, drawing non-potable fluids into the plumbing system and causing contamination. The vacuum breaker has a small valve that opens when the pressure drops, allowing air to enter the system. This prevents vacuum build-up and keeps contaminants out of the water supply.
Hoses and taps may have vacuum breakers and these devices may also be used on other supply lines. They are part of a number of safety systems used by people to keep drinking water safe. These include separating drainage and sewer lines, installing emergency shut-off valves, and so on. The vacuum breaker is usually inexpensive, and people can install it quickly, with minimal effort, to improve the safety of a plumbing system.
A plumber can determine if a vacuum breaker is needed and where to install the device. There may be settings where people shouldn’t be using these devices, or where they simply aren’t needed because other safety features are present and the vacuum switch would be redundant. In the case of a new plumbing installation, the plumber will spend some time planning the system and determining the placement of safety features so that it is compliant and safe to use from the start. In the case of a retrofit, the plumber may need to thoroughly inspect the system and its documentation to make decisions about how to proceed.
Hardware supply stores have vacuum breakers available in various styles and sizes to fit your plumbing needs. If people are replacing an existing fitting, it can be helpful to take it into the shop to make sure the fit is correct. Most hardware stores have very lenient return policies, but people usually want to avoid a wasted trip.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
