What is the Purpose of a Vacuum Breaker in Faucets

Updated 01/21/2020 | Published 09/27/2016

Question:

What is the purpose of the vacumn breaker. When the faucet is shut off, it weeps water out of it still

asked by: Tom I

Expert Reply:

A vacuum breaker is an attachment commonly placed on a bibcock valve or toilet or urinal flush valve, that prevents water from being siphoned backward into the public drinking water system. This prevents contamination should the public drinking water system's pressure drop.

A vacuum breaker typically contains a plastic disc that is pressed forward by water supply pressure, and covers small vent holes. Should the supply pressure drop, the disc springs back opening the vent holes (which let in outside air), and preventing backflow of water.

A leaky faucet is not typically tied to a vacuum breaker.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Matthew L.

1/20/2020

I have found a full brass fixture with no breaker Item # PF213321. What are the downfalls to not having the vacuum breaker?

Jacob H.

1/21/2020

The vacuum breaker is designed to keep water from being siphoned back towards the public drinking water supply should the pressure in the system drop. I would have to say it is a must have for you and others. I have provided a link to all of the faucets with vacuum breakers that we have available.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-RV_Faucets-pt-Shower_Valve-gw-Vacuum_Breaker.aspx

Matthew L.

1/21/2020

Thanks for clarifying Jacob. My concern is that I want to put a on/off at the vacuum breaker, which Im sure would end up snapping after some use. Any ideas for that issue?

Jason S.

1/21/2020

I've never heard of putting a shut-off at the vacuum breaker. The whole purpose of the vacuum breaker is to ensure you don't have contaminated water coming out your faucet, so if you were to shut off the vacuum you could have a serious problem. I definitely don't recommend that for your safety and others.