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When is it permissible for an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker to have a downstream shutoff valve?

  1. The AVB may have a downstream shutoff valve

  2. The AVB may not have a downstream shutoff valve

  3. The AVB must always have a downstream shutoff valve

  4. The AVB can have a downstream shutoff valve if approved

The correct answer is: The AVB may not have a downstream shutoff valve

An Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) is designed to prevent back siphonage, ensuring that contaminants do not flow back into the potable water supply. For the AVB to function correctly, it must maintain a specific no-pressure condition on the downstream side of the device. Allowing a downstream shutoff valve presents a risk since closing the valve could create a vacuum condition that might disable the AVB's protective function, allowing for possible backflow. Therefore, plumbing codes typically dictate that an AVB must not have a downstream shutoff valve. The design and placement of the AVB need to ensure that a potential back siphonage scenario is mitigated effectively, which is jeopardized if a shutoff valve is installed downstream. This principle underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the AVB’s operation and the overall safety of the water supply system.