A Vacuum Breaker Hookup Guide

Installation Requirements

• Because a vacuum breaker relies on differences in air pressure to check the flow of water inside the device, it must be installed at the highest point on any sprinkler system. A good rule of thumb is to install a vacuum breaker on supply and discharge pipes that are at least 18 inches above ground. This will ensure that your breaker has enough difference in air pressure from the underground pipes to work properly. Installing a vacuum breaker lower than any sprinklers on the system can result in failure of the breaker.

Connecting to Water Pipes

• Connecting a vacuum breaker to the supply and discharge pipes is a matter of tightening two compression nuts. Loosen the two compression nuts on the bottom of the breaker and slip the fittings over the two pipes, aligning the supply side with the supply pipe and the discharge side with the discharge line. Tighten both nuts using a wrench to connect the breaker to the pipes. No plumber's tape or plumber's putty is needed for these connections.

Checking the Flow

• When installing a vacuum breaker, it's critical to make sure the vacuum inside the fitting is working properly. To do this, turn both of the small ball valves on the side of the breaker 90 degrees clockwise. This will begin the flow of water inside the breaker. Water will squirt from the top or sides of the breaker for a few seconds while the system engages. However, if water leaks out for more than 30 seconds, there is likely a problem with the breaker. Usually, this can be fixed by elevating the position of the breaker on the pipes to create the vacuum.

Installing Valve and Drain Caps

• All vacuum breakers contain a series of valve and drain caps that can be used for testing the breaker or for draining as part of winterization. To install the valve caps, place the plastic caps that come with the breaker over the two small ball valves on the side of the vacuum breaker housing. These valves are called test cocks and allow for the hookup of test equipment such as a pressure gauge. Turning a test cock with a screwdriver also will spray water to demonstrate a pressurized vacuum breaker. A third valve is located on the bottom of the housing. Screw on the small brass valve cap that comes with the breaker to plug this drain valve. The drain valve is used to remove water from inside the vacuum breaker during winter.