AboutDana Bostick Expertise Pretty much any residential plumbing questions. Note: I live and work in Southern California. We do not as a rule use boilers, hot water or steam heating systems or wells so my knowledge in those areas is limited. There are others here that can probably answer those questions better.
"We all is city folk" out here! What is a "well" LOL
Experience Licensed General Contractor with Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical sub-licenses
Question In order to prevent backflow into the public water supply, I recently purchased a Hose Connection Vacuum Breaker (ASSE 1011) to hook up to my home exterior faucet. I then checked this part on the Internet and read that the ASSE 1011 should NOT be used if there is a shut-off valve downstream of the device. I have a spray nozzle at the end of my hose which is shut-off valve. I also have another hose which runs into a shut-off valve at the entrance of my garden-soaker hose. Why is the downstream shut-off valve a problem? What type of backflow device should I purchase to "do it right"? Thanks!
Answer Hi Dan,
It will work fine. If there is pressure on the downstream side, the internal diaphragm will not release and drain. Just release the downstream pressure so the lines will drain. This is most important if you live in an area where it freezes. The trapped water can expand and break almost anything.
Best,
Dana
