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new electric water heater - Vacuum breaker necessary?

33K views 13 replies 8 participants last post by  teanbiscuits 
#1 ·
Installing a new 50 Gal electric water heater. I'm moving the unit to the back of the room. Do I need to install a vacuum breaker on the cold supply, I've heard yes and I've heard no.
 
#3 ·
Hey Ron, I think maybe different names are the problem. Anti-siphon device? Backflow preventer?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atmospheric_vacuum_breaker

I just say vacuum breaker because the device I happened to have is a vacuum breaker, w. the little hood on top.

If you do say yes, the other question is, do I have to install it upright or can I install it upside down or verticle??

Thanks again!
 
#6 ·
Mandatory in Massachusetts - Must be installed Upright

Hey Ron, I think maybe different names are the problem. Anti-siphon device? Backflow preventer?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atmospheric_vacuum_breaker

I just say vacuum breaker because the device I happened to have is a vacuum breaker, w. the little hood on top.

If you do say yes, the other question is, do I have to install it upright or can I install it upside down or verticle??

Thanks again!
Mandatory in Massachusetts

Must be installed upright (so it looks like a Mushroom)

Watts N36

Water Service Vacuum Relief Valves

http://www.watts.com/pages/_products_details.asp?pid=815
 
This post has been deleted
#7 ·
The purpose of a vacuum breaker at a water heater is, in the event extreme suction should be applied to the water system, for example a fire engine pumper fighting a fire down the street, the water heater tank doesn't collapse or implode.
 
#11 ·
Someone using Google to get plumbing do it yourself help.
 
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