6 Tips for Choosing an Anti Siphon Valve

An anti siphon valve helps prevent the back flow of water to the water source. This avoids the contamination of the water supply from other foreign objects or chemicals that may get into the plumbing as the water pump in an outdoor plumbing is shut off. What many people do not know is that there is a wide variety of anti siphon valves available for various tasks. Choosing the wrong valve may be a big waste of money and time.

But first of all, determine if an anti siphon valve is needed or not. If the water supply for the sprinkling system on a lawn comes from a drinking supply, better have one installed. However, if the supply comes from another source such as a pond or stream, an anti siphon valve may not be needed. However, most states require the installation of the valve. To ensure choosing the right kind of anti siphon valve, here are some tips.

Tip 1: Never Choose Cheap Valves

Although there are plastic valves available in the market offering cheap prices, it is always safe to purchase those with stronger material to ensure longevity and quality. Why install a valve that will most likely fail if there are better alternatives? Choose those made of glass-filled nylon, brass or other material with good quality.

Tip 2: Choose Valves with Shut Off Capability

An anti siphon valve with a shut off capability allows easier repairs in the future. When testing the valve, it is not necessary to shut off the whole water system. This is convenient especially when the water supply is in constant use in other areas of the home or commercial center.

Tip 3: Choose Brass Valves for Heavy Use

For lawns that require heavy usage of sprinklers and anti siphon valves, buy brass valves. These valves are more expensive, but are suited for heavy usage. Brass valves are also quite durable as compared to other types of valves.

Tip 4: Do not Choose Valves that sit Above Grade

Valves that sit above grade are more susceptible to damage from external elements. Unless the valve is made of top quality material such as brass, never choose these types of valves.

Tip 5: Choose Valves with Internal Scrub Mechanism

If the water supply comes from a body of water that is not necessarily clean (pond water, river water, canal water, or stream water), make sure to choose those with an internal scrub mechanism to prevent the plumbing from clogging.

Tip 6: Choose the Right Size of Valve

Practically, ¾-inch valves make a good choice for residential use. There are also larger valves below 3-inches that are necessary for larger surface areas and heavy usage. Unless, necessary, do not buy expensive valves that are more than 3-inches in size. These valves are not practical and are to be used only in complex irrigation systems. To be sure, ask an expert plumber’s advice when working with complex irrigation systems.