An Oatey inline vent is used to provide mechanical venting of plumbing fixtures to prevent the vacuum that can occur when draining water from the fixture. It works by connecting to a fixture drain and then allowing air to enter the line as the water is draining.
This prevents the vacuum that would otherwise be created by draining the water alone. The air entering the line will then flow up and out of a plumbing vent stack. The Oatey inline vent has an internal baffle that is designed to keep the water and air separate and to allow the necessary air to enter the line.
It also has an attached insect screen that helps to keep debris and other materials out of the vent. The Oatey inline vent provides a more efficient solution than traditional vents because it is easier to install due to not needing an additional vent stack.
It is also more affordable and is designed to be maintenance free.
Where should an air admittance be installed?
When installing an air admittance valve, it is important to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Generally, they are typically installed in a position that is higher than the fixture they are serving.
This is so that the valve can be filled with air instead of wastewater, which ensures its functionality and preventing any potential sewer gas odor.
The optimum location for the air admittance valve is just above the fixture it is supplying, and in the same room. It should be installed under the floor at least 12 inches (30 cm) away from the edge of the fixtures and should point directly downwards.
The valve should also not be located near any electrical components or devices, as the potentially corrosive properties of sewer gas can damage the connections.
It is also important when installing the air admittance valve to not block the atmospheric environment around it. As mentioned earlier, the valve needs to be filled with air instead of waste water and blocking the atmosphere can prevent this from happening, causing the valve to malfunction.
As such, it should have a minimum of four inches ( 10 cm) of clear space around the valve. Additionally, an air admittance valve should not be installed in a wall or a false ceiling cavity, as any trapped air can lead to problems.
Finally, the location of the air admittance valve should be marked so it is easy to find and identify. This way, it can be easily serviced or replaced when necessary.
Does air admittance valve have to be above the sink?
No, an air admittance valve does not have to be placed above the sink; however, it is best practice to install the air admittance valve as high as possible in the drainage system. An air admittance valve helps the drainage system “breath” by allowing air to enter the drainage system, which is necessary because it balances the differences in pressure and prevents the siphonic action of the system from failing.
Since the valve is usually installed close to the sink, it is best to have it located at or above the sink to eliminate the potential of water and debris entering the valve, which could impair its functionality.
Additionally, it is important to keep vents and air admittance valves at least 6 inches away from potential sources of ignition.
Can an air admittance valve be inside a wall?
Yes, an air admittance valve can be installed inside a wall. However, it is important to understand the local building codes and regulations before installation as they may require that an air admittance valve be installed in a certain area.
An air admittance valve is designed to control the flow of air into a plumbing system and to prevent the backflow of sewer gases and odors from entering the building. It is typically installed in the highest portion of the pipe leading from the plumbing system to the drain and vent stacks.
When installing an air admittance valve within a wall, the valve must be placed above the flood level of the fixture it serves, and in an accessible location that allows for proper maintenance. Additionally, the valve must be protected from the extreme temperatures, like the types found inside walls, that can cause the unit to fail and ultimately cause plumbing problems.
For all air admittance valve installations, it is recommended to contact a certified plumber or building inspector to make sure the unit is installed properly and meets all local, state and federal guidelines.
How high should an AAV be?
The height of an Automatic Air Vent (AAV) is a very important factor to consider in any plumbing system. Unvented water systems typically require an AAV to control and vent the system pressure by relieving high pressure at the tank.
In this case, the AAV should be installed as high as possible, near the cold water storage cistern or the top of the hot water cylinder in a gravity-fed system. The installation height should be a minimum of 1.
5m (but not greater than 1. 8m) above the highest outlet using the system.
The purpose of the AAV is to help prevent thermal expansion of hot water caused by heating, by releasing the pressure when it reaches a certain point. There should also be an allowance for any increase in pressure due to snowmelt or other weighted conditions.
The installation should also ensure that the AAV is adequately supported, to prevent damage caused by sudden development of pressure or vibrations from nearby equipment. It is important that the AAV is not mounted in a horizontal position, and should not be directly exposed to heat or steam from nearby equipment.
Finally, make sure that the AAV will not be placed in an area subject to blockage or contamination. It is important to note that the installation of an AAV is the responsibility of a qualified plumber.
What happens when air admittance valve fails?
When an air admittance valve (AAV) fails, it can cause a range of plumbing problems. Because the valve is designed to regulate airflow in drainage and vent pipes, a failure can lead to improper venting and drainage issues that can cause problems including clogged and slow draining pipes, gurgling sounds, and water backups.
In some cases, a failed AAV can also create a situation where water backs up and overflows from sinks, toilet tanks, and other fixtures. If this happens, a professional plumber should be contacted to inspect and replace the valve.
The plumber may also need to check the rest of the plumbing system to make sure that other issues, such as clogs or blockages, are not to blame for the failure of the AAV.
Do air admittance valves need maintenance?
Yes, air admittance valves require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in top condition. Air admittance valves are designed to automatically vent gases in plumbing systems; however, over time this function can become impaired due to the build-up of corrosion or particles in the line.
In order to keep air admittance valves in top condition and ensure their proper operation, the following maintenance should be completed:
1. Check the air admittance valve regularly to make sure it is clean and free of debris.
2. Clean the banjo screens on the valve, as well as the centering disc and sealing discs. This can be done with a small brush or vacuum cleaner.
3. Replace any worn or broken parts, including the O-rings, which seal the valve.
4. Replace the air admittance valve with a new one if any of the components are corroded or have been exposed to harsh chemicals.
5. Test the operation of the valve both manually and with a water pressure test in order to check that it is functioning properly.
It is important to note that air admittance valves should be installed in accordance with local codes and regulations, as there are some jurisdictions that do not allow their use. Additionally, the use of an air admittance valve should be approved by a licensed plumber as any issues can potentially present a safety hazard.