Extreme heat in Las Vegas Valley is what comes to mind when people think of our weather. What people don’t realize is the winter temperatures often drop well below freezing. These extremes often catch unprepared homeowners by surprise. One of the unpleasant surprises is when their Pressure Vacuum Valves break. This happens because the valves are above ground allowing the water inside the valve to freeze causing it to break.
What are Pressure Vacuum Valves and why are they needed? A typical residential water service has one connection to the public water supply. From there the water supply branches out two directions, one to the domestic water supply for the residence for drinking/household uses and the other to the irrigation system. One of the risks with the irrigation system is cross contamination to the potable water system of the home. A Pressure Vacuum Valve prevents this.
A pressure vacuum valve has a check device and an air inlet. Since it needs air it has to be installed above ground, exposing it to freezing temperatures. It also has to be above the highest sprinkler head or slope in the yard. The check valve is built to allow water to pass which keeps the air inlet closed during normal operations. When the air pressure is more than the water pressure the vented opens and closes the check valve preventing backflow into the potable water system.
Local building codes require homes to have Pressure Vacuum Valves preventing contamination. Manufacturers recommend that the valves be maintained on a regular basis. The internal components of the Pressure Vacuum Valves should be replaced by a professional at Sin City Plumbing every five years. At that time we can also make sure that the valve is properly winterized for freezing conditions.
During normal temperatures a Pressure Vacuum Valve can also fail from day to day use over time. This is evident when water leaks from under the bell or bonnet assembly.
When homeowners in the Las Vegas Valley do need their Pressure Vacuum Valves maintained or repaired they count on the Reliable and affordable professionals at Sin City Plumbing (702-431 6502). During the cold winter months when valves freeze and break, Sin City Plumbing offers 24/7 Emergency Service.
