Vacuum Breaker Leaking Water on Outdoor Shower

Updated 08/28/2026 | Published 08/23/2026

Question:

Hello, I am looking at the Empire Faucets Shower Valve w/ 90-Degree Vacuum Breaker for Exterior RV Showers - White Part Number: EM44JR, would like to know if the vacuum breaker will be shooting out water while shower is on, and get the shower box full of water, or just open up and drain once shower is turned off. I have the same unit on my RV, and want to know if it is defective and need replacement. Thank you.

asked by: Mike Y

Expert Reply:

Thanks for letting us help Mike. The vacuum breaker on the Empire Faucets Exterior RV Shower # EM44JR should not continuously spray or discharge water while you're using the shower. The vacuum breaker acts as an anti-siphon device, preventing potentially contaminated water from being drawn backward through the shower hose and into your RV's fresh water system. The small air opening in the vacuum breaker can release or drain some residual water when the water is shut off, but it shouldn't continuously discharge water while the shower is running.

If you're seeing a steady spray or flow of water from the vacuum breaker during normal use, that indicates it likely isn't sealing properly. Debris or mineral buildup could be preventing the internal valve from fully closing, so I'd start by removing the shower hose and checking the vacuum breaker for any visible buildup or debris that can be cleaned out. If everything appears clean and it continues leaking or spraying while the shower is running, I'd recommend replacing the # EM44JR, as the vacuum breaker itself is likely no longer sealing correctly.

Are you running the exterior shower often or just a few times a year to rinse your gear when needed?

expert reply by: Christopher H