What must an operator ensure when installing a pressure vacuum breaker backflow device? It must be at least ______ inches above the highest downstream outlet.

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Multiple Choice

What must an operator ensure when installing a pressure vacuum breaker backflow device? It must be at least ______ inches above the highest downstream outlet.

Explanation:
A pressure vacuum breaker backflow device relies on an atmospheric vent to allow air into the line and prevent backflow. To keep that vent functioning, the device must be installed high enough so that downstream water or debris cannot reach or submerge the vent. Installing it at least twelve inches above the highest downstream outlet ensures the vent stays clear and able to vent air if pressure in the downstream line drops, which protects the potable supply from siphoning back. Six inches isn’t enough to guarantee the vent won’t be overwhelmed by surges or rises in the downstream line, while eighteen or twenty-four inches would be more than necessary for standard installations. Therefore, the required clearance is twelve inches.

A pressure vacuum breaker backflow device relies on an atmospheric vent to allow air into the line and prevent backflow. To keep that vent functioning, the device must be installed high enough so that downstream water or debris cannot reach or submerge the vent. Installing it at least twelve inches above the highest downstream outlet ensures the vent stays clear and able to vent air if pressure in the downstream line drops, which protects the potable supply from siphoning back.

Six inches isn’t enough to guarantee the vent won’t be overwhelmed by surges or rises in the downstream line, while eighteen or twenty-four inches would be more than necessary for standard installations. Therefore, the required clearance is twelve inches.

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