An anti-siphon valve, also known as a backflow preventer, is an important device to have installed on outdoor faucets. It prevents contaminated water from siphoning back into the home’s drinking water supply. Installing an anti-siphon valve is a straightforward project that most DIYers can complete in less than an hour.
Benefits of Installing an Anti-Siphon Valve
There are several key benefits to installing an anti-siphon valve on an outdoor faucet:
- Prevents Backflow Contamination: The main purpose of an anti-siphon valve is to prevent backflow contamination. It stops dirty water from being siphoned back into the household plumbing system where it could contaminate drinking water. This helps protect your family’s health.
- Meets Plumbing Codes: Most areas require anti-siphon valves on outdoor spigots due to plumbing codes. Installing one may be mandated by law.
- Inexpensive Protection: Anti-siphon valves provide an affordable layer of protection compared to the potentially high costs of a contaminated water supply. Investing in one now can save money down the road.
- Easy to Install: Putting in an anti-siphon valve is a DIY project that most homeowners can tackle in less than an hour with some basic tools. Hiring a plumber is not necessary.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your drinking water is safe from backflow contamination provides peace of mind. This inexpensive valve gives an added level of protection.
Installing an anti-siphon valve is one of the simplest ways to guard against potential backflow contamination issues. The benefits above make it a smart investment for any home.
How Anti-Siphon Valves Prevent Backflow
Anti-siphon valves work by automatically opening and closing based on the water pressure coming into the valve. Here is how they prevent backflow contamination:
- Normal Flow: When the faucet is turned on, water flows from the household plumbing system out through the anti-siphon valve. The water pressure pushes the valve open, allowing normal flow.
- Backflow Pressure: If there is a drop in supply pressure, contaminated water can potentially get siphoned back into the household plumbing from the hose. With an anti-siphon valve, the reversed pressure automatically closes the valve, blocking any backflow.
- Air Inlet Valve: The valves have a small vent that allows air to enter the line. This prevents a vacuum from forming and pulling contaminated water back when the faucet turns off.
The automatic opening and closing of the valve based on water pressure keeps contamination from entering the home’s plumbing. Simple physics protects your water supply!
Choosing the Right Anti-Siphon Valve
There are a few considerations when selecting an anti-siphon valve for your outdoor faucet:
- Pipe Size – Match the valve to the pipe size of your existing plumbing (typically 3/4″ or 1/2″). This ensures a proper fit.
- Style – Choose a valve style compatible with your faucet, such as a dual-check valve, atmospheric vacuum breaker, pressure vacuum breaker, or reduced pressure backflow assembly.
- Installer Skill Level – Some valves are easier to install than others. Opt for an easy-to-install style if you are a beginner.
- Applicable Codes – Check local plumbing codes for any requirements. Some areas mandate reduced pressure valves.
- Materials – Common materials include plastic and brass. Both work well, so choose based on price and longevity.
- Budget – Anti-siphon valves range from $10-$60. Pick one that fits your project budget.
Doing a little homework ensures you get the right anti-siphon valve for your specific outdoor faucet setup. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for installation guidelines.
Tools and Materials Needed
Installing an anti-siphon valve is a fairly simple DIY plumbing task. Here are the basic tools and materials you will need:
Tools
- Adjustable wrenches (2)
- Pipe wrench
- Teflon tape
- Rag
- Bucket to catch water
Materials
- Anti-siphon valve
- Pipe sealant (like plumber’s putty)
Other Supplies
- Flashlight
- Knee pads (optional)
Take inventory before starting to ensure you have everything you need. Avoid mid-project delays from missing tools or parts.
Shutting Off Water Supply
The first step is to turn off the water supply to the outdoor faucet you are adding the anti-siphon valve to. This prevents water from spraying out when you remove hoses and fittings.
Locate the shut-off valve for the outdoor faucet water supply line. It is usually near where the line enters the house.
- Close the shut-off valve by turning it clockwise until tight.
Check to confirm the water is off by turning on the outdoor faucet briefly. The handle should spin freely without water coming out.
With the water supply shut-off, you can now start removing fittings without getting soaked in the process!
Removing Existing Faucet Connections
After shutting off the water, detach any hoses or accessories hooked up to the outdoor faucet, such as:
- Unthread and remove any hose ends attached to the faucet. Use an adjustable wrench if needed.
- Take off the handle if there is one. Usually it pulls off by hand.
- Unscrew any accessories threaded onto the faucet such as splitters or timers.
Removing all these connections gives you access to install the anti-siphon valve. Place detached pieces aside carefully to reattach later.
Installing the Anti-Siphon Valve
With the faucet clear, you can now install the new anti-siphon valve:
Step 1: Apply Pipe Sealant
- Put a thin ring of pipe sealant on the threads of the anti-siphon valve. This ensures a watertight connection and prevents leaks.
Step 2: Thread on Valve
- Hand tighten the anti-siphon valve onto the outdoor faucet threads.
- Finish tightening with adjustable wrenches. Do not overtighten.
Step 3: Reattach Accessories
- Thread any previously removed accessories like hose splitters back onto the new anti-siphon valve.
- Reattach the handle on the faucet if there was one.
That’s it – the valve is installed! Now you just need to turn the water back on and test for leaks.
Turning Water Back On
Once the anti-siphon valve is threaded securely in place, you can turn the water supply back on:
- Go back to the shut-off valve and open it slowly by turning it counter-clockwise.
- Check for any leaks at connections as you open the valve. Tighten if necessary.
- Turn on the outdoor faucet and let water run for 30 seconds to flush out any debris.
The anti-siphon valve will now provide automatic protection against backflow each time the faucet is used!
Testing for Leaks
The final step is to test your work for leaks:
- With the anti-siphon valve installed and water on, check carefully for drips at threaded connections.
- Tighten joints using pipe wrenches if any seepage occurs. Be gentle if tightening plastic connections.
- Turn on the outdoor faucet and visually inspect while water is flowing.
- Feel around connection points for moisture. Fix any wet spots.
Taking a few extra minutes to test for leaks will ensure your new valve works properly for years to come.
Troubleshooting Issues
In most cases, the installation process goes smoothly. But here are some tips if you encounter problems:
- Leaks at Threads: Apply more pipe sealant and tighten joints. Replace worn washers if needed.
- Spitting or Sputtering Faucet: Turn off water, disassemble, and check for blockages. Flush lines.
- No Water Flow: Ensure water supply is on. Disassemble valve and inspect internal parts for blockages.
- Water Backflow: Double check valve is installed in the proper flow direction. Replace any faulty internal parts.
With some patience, you can troubleshoot any issues that arise and get your anti-siphon valve working properly.
Maintaining the Valve
Annual maintenance helps keep your anti-siphon valve functioning properly:
- Inspect externally – Replace any cracked or damaged parts
- Clean out any debris, scale, or sediment
- Ensure internal springs, seals, and o-rings are in good condition
- Test water flow and backflow prevention
- Drain water and winterize the valve during freezing weather if needed
Taking a few minutes for simple upkeep ensures the valve provides long-term protection against backflow issues.
Why Every Outdoor Faucet Needs an Anti-Siphon Valve
Installing an anti-siphon valve on outdoor faucets is highly recommended for all homes to prevent backflow contamination. Here are the key reasons why every outdoor spigot should have one:
- It’s Required by Law – Most local plumbing codes mandate anti-siphon valves on external spigots. Stay on the safe side of code requirements.
- Protects Health – These valves provide the first line of defense to keep chemical or bacterial contamination from entering your household water supply and making your family sick.
- Prevents Property Damage – Backflows can cause serious flooding and water damage inside a home. Anti-siphon valves are a cost-effective way to avoid expensive repairs.
- Adds Resale Value – Upgraded plumbing features like anti-siphon valves boost home value for future sales. Buyers want updated systems.
- Low Cost – Given the health and financial risks, these valves are incredibly inexpensive insurance against backflow issues arising.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – install an anti-siphon valve on all external faucets now. Your family and home are worth this simple investment.
FAQs about Installing Anti-Siphon Valves
Should I install an anti-siphon valve myself or hire a plumber?
Most DIYers can handle installing these simple valves on their own with some basic tools and plumbing skills. But for those uncomfortable with plumbing, hiring a professional is advisable.
Where is the best place to locate an anti-siphon valve?
The optimal location is directly after the shut-off valve, before any splits to accessories like hoses or irrigation systems. This maximizes backflow protection.
How do I know if I have the right type of anti-siphon valve?
Check local building codes which often stipulate the exact type required for outdoor faucets in your area based on piping systems.
Can I install one anti-siphon valve and have it protect multiple outdoor faucets?
No, you need to install a valve on each individual outdoor faucet for proper backflow protection according to code requirements.
How can I tell if my anti-siphon valve is bad and needs replacing?
Warning signs include visible cracks or damage, clogged or stuck internal parts, failed backflow tests, and leaks or spraying from the valve.
Do anti-siphon valves need regular maintenance?
Yes, you should inspect and test the valves annually. Periodic cleaning, lubricating, and replacing worn gaskets maintains proper function.
What mistakes should I avoid when installing an anti-siphon valve?
Avoid overtightening plastic fittings, using the wrong size valve, not applying pipe sealant, and installing the valve in the wrong flow direction.
Can an anti-siphon valve reduce water flow or pressure?
Minimally. Most pressure loss is from old galvanized piping, not the valve. Inspect internal seals annually and lubricate parts to prevent clogs.
How do anti-siphon valves fail over time?
Seals and gaskets wear out, internal springs lose tension, debris clogs mechanisms, parts corrode, and plastic cracks from UV and weather exposure.
Conclusion
Installing an anti-siphon valve is an easy, cost-effective way to protect your home’s water supply from backflow contamination issues. These safety devices take less than an hour to add to outdoor faucets and provide peace of mind knowing your family’s health is safeguarded.
With some basic DIY skills and tools, you can successfully install an anti-siphon valve yourself following the steps outlined above. Take care to choose the right style valve, test for leaks, and maintain it properly over time. Your efforts will be rewarded with clean fresh water every time you turn on the outdoor tap.