Should a Hose Bibb Vacuum Breaker be used on frost-free hydrants?
Yes – but the device must be equipped with means to permit the line to drain after the hydrant is shut-off. Be sure it is equipped to drain the line to prevent freezing during our colder months of the year. Most manufacturers sell a frost proof model which has a means to allow the homeowner to drain the line to prevent damage during freezing temperatures. ***Note: Only sanitary yard hydrants are allowed to be connected to the public water supply. The homeowner may utilize a normal yard hydrant only if it is protected by an RPZ backflow prevention assembly, and it must also be labeled as non-potable water. ***Note: Customers should take necessary actions to ensure that their backflow prevention device or plumbing does not get damaged during freezing temperatures.
