The need for an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) system in any commercial building cannot be overstated. This is due to the critical role AVB plays in ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the water supply by preventing backflow, particularly back-siphonage of non-potable liquids into the potable water supply.
An Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker is a type of backflow prevention device that includes an atmospheric vent and a check valve. The main function of this device is to prevent back-siphonage, which is the reversal of the normal flow of water caused by negative pressure in the supply piping. When there is back-siphonage, there is a high risk of contamination of potable water with non-potable liquids. This can pose serious health risks if not prevented or managed properly. Therefore, to ensure that clean, fresh, and safe water is delivered at all times, it is essential to have an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker installed in the water supply system.
In commercial buildings, the risk of back-siphonage is even higher due to the complexity of the plumbing systems and the large volume of water used daily. For instance, in a typical commercial building, there are multiple points where water can be drawn from the system, such as sinks, toilets, and showers. Each of these points represents a potential risk for back-siphonage if a drop in pressure occurs in the supply piping system. Thus, having an AVB installed can enhance the safety of the water supply by preventing any potential contamination due to back siphonage.
Apart from enhancing safety, an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker can also help commercial buildings comply with local and national regulations related to water safety. Most jurisdictions require commercial buildings to have backflow prevention devices installed in their plumbing systems to protect public health. Therefore, having an AVB can help a commercial building meet these regulatory requirements.
In conclusion, an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker is a vital component in any commercial building’s water supply system. It not only ensures the safety and cleanliness of the water supply but also helps meet regulatory requirements. Therefore, if you own or manage a commercial building, it would be prudent to ensure that your water supply system includes an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker.
