When constructing the sewer infrastructure, ventilation ducts for removing fetid fumes should also be provided. Not in all cases, especially private homeowners, think about such an addition, but it is necessary to maintain sanitary and hygienic standards. The situation is aggravated by the fact that the operation of the sewage outlet can take place in the normal mode even without the integration of special ventilation devices. However, an increase in the concentration of rarefied air in the sewer will sooner or later turn into an accident. A vacuum valve, the photo of which is presented below, will help prevent unpleasant consequences. This device removes excess vapors, and with them odors.
When should a valve be used?
First of all, it is important to note that utility workers do not have the right to impose the installation of sewer valves. Unless in apartment buildings the problem of ventilation is solved by the service company. The need to install vacuum valves is usually faced by owners of private houses. So, if a water seal was not initially provided in a country cottage with the output of the riser through the atticoutside, you will have to retrofit the system. At the same time, even in private homes, a vacuum sewer valve does not always solve the problem of removing accumulated gases. For example, if two toilets are used in different rooms, then the device may not work if it is drained at the same time. There are almost no alternatives to this system, however, properly calculated standard ventilation can completely eliminate the need for such an addition.
Component device
In essence, this is a typical fitting that is connected to the pipeline by means of a seal. The basis of the element is a plastic case, in which a side hole is provided. That is, you should select a vacuum valve for sewage with specific parameters. As for the internal filling, it is represented by a rod, which, at the moments of activation, opens the same hole with a valve. The action of the rod is regulated by a rubber pad-limiter. Also, some models provide protection in the form of a cover covering the stem assembly.
Depending on the modification, the device can be supplemented with other functional devices. In particular, a modern vacuum valve may have a rubber membrane replacing the stem. From the point of view of work efficiency, this solution fully justifies itself, but many users complain about the fragility of the rubber parts as such.
Working principle
The action of the device is similar to the workmost other valve mechanisms - accordingly, it has two functional positions. In the normal state, the valve is closed, which ensures the tightness of the sewer system and does not allow odors to enter the premises. But the main task is not this. The ability to remove gases to normalize pressure is the function for which a vacuum valve is installed. The principle of operation of the aerator is based on the interaction of a sensitive shutter, which reacts to the concentration of water, and gases inside the sewer. In other words, when using the same toilet, the valve is also activated, letting in additional volumes of air.
How to install a vacuum valve?
The device itself is quite compact, and at the stage of the initial laying of the sewer system, its installation will not cause any particular difficulties. Direct installation can be done in three ways. The most reliable and common involves the use of a threaded connection. To do this, it is necessary to form a thread, treat it with silicone sealant and make a connection. As an alternative, the installation of vacuum valves through the socket is also recommended. In this case, it is necessary to prepare a rubber cuff, also treated with sealing compounds, and then tightly fit the device onto the end of the pipe. The third method involves the introduction of an adapter into the design, the endings of which are optimally suited for connecting to both the valve and the sewerage system.
Pros and consvacuum valve
Like any additional component in the engineering system of the house, the sewer valve gives not only pluses, but also minuses. The advantages include its main function of stabilizing the pressure inside the pipeline. If we evaluate this element as an alternative to traditional sewer ventilation devices, then experts first of all point out that there is no need to organize complex pipe outlets through the roof. Now it is worth highlighting the shortcomings that distinguish the vacuum valve integrated into the sewer system. Firstly, the device can only withstand small pressure loads, so it is advisable to use it only in small houses. Secondly, even models equipped with a stem do not differ in durability. Roughly speaking, this is a plumbing consumable that will have to be replaced over time.
Conclusion
Finding a suitable vacuum valve model on the market today is not difficult. Thus, high-quality import offers from Ostendorf and Sanit are estimated at 1000-1500 rubles. If we are talking about small loads in a simplified sewerage system, then you can purchase a Russian vacuum valve from Politek or Politron manufacturers. These are budget products available for 200-300 rubles. When properly installed, even an inexpensive valve will effectively perform its function, preventing the passage of unpleasant odors from the sewer. Expensive models, in turn, can completely replace the sewerventilation, as well as to cope with the tasks of aeration. However, the overall quality of the functioning of the drainage system is determined by the characteristics of the main pipeline, as well as its connection with home plumbing.
