Causes of Water Backflow Vacuum Leaks

Connection Vacuum Breakers

• Most residential systems have what is known as a connection vacuum breaker, a small component that attaches to faucets and keeps a vacuum from forming. It only allows water to flow in one direction and disperses water flow enough that a vacuum does not develop. When backflow probelms occur, it is probably because something has happened to this vacuum breaker.

Corrosion

• Vacuum breakers are made out of durable metals such as copper and coated steel, but they are not rust-proof. Over time, the combination of water and exposure to outdoor air will cause them to rust. As they do, they can start to fail in their functions and allow vacuum leaks to form. Rust on your vacuum breaker is a sign that it needs to be replaced.

Precipitates

• Hard water and water that carries high amounts of sediment can precipitate dirt and minerals into the vacuum breaker. This can stop the breaker from working and allow vacuums to form once again, leading to new backflow problems. You can unscrew the vacuum breaker from your faucet and examine it for signs of calcium deposits or other buildup that suggests it either needs to be cleaned or totally replaced.

Water Issues -- Siphoning and Back Pressure

• Backflow vacuums do not just happen on their own. They are caused by a couple of problems in the system. If your water supply quickly drops to a low level because of a pumping malfunction, the pressure in the water lines and atmospheric pressure will align to draw water back through your plumbing. also, if the pressure of an outside component such as a garden hose is greater than the pressure in a supply line, the vacuum breaker might not be able to prevent sudden shifts in pressure that cause backflows.