Should a hose bib vacuum breaker be used on frost-free hydrants?
Definitely, providing the device is equipped with means to permit the line to drain after the hydrant is shut-off. A “removable” type hose bib vacuum breaker could allow the hydrant to be drained, but the possibility exists that users might fail to remove it for draining purposes, thus defeating the benefit of the frost-proof hydrant feature. If the device is of the “non-removable” type, be sure it is equipped with means to drain the line to prevent winter freezing.
