Vacuum Breaker Issue

Hi Guys -

I just finished installing a hand shower and had had some issues with the vacuum breaker. Every time I tightened the breaker to the supply elbow with the washer included, the washer would compress down against the slits, and would prevent the water from coming through the breaker.

I have everything working now without the washer. All of the connections were Teflon taped. Is the washer necessary? If so, do you know why it keeps getting forced against the openings?

Thanks,
Derek

Shower Washer Prob.

Without knowing what type and brand of hand shower you have I can't answer, sorry.

jlsddmar said:

Is the washer necessary?

Click to expand...

Who cares it's working

But in all honesty the only other thing I would try is putting in a smaller washer.

Vacuum Breaker

Hi -

The vacuum breaker is an Alson's 4900. (http://www.alsons.com/accessories/hoses/products/docs/ACC_VB_4900_instr.pdf)

The only thing I'm not sure of is whether the washer is only for sealing purposes, or if it functions as part of the breaker (and therefore isn't working correctly without it). Either way, I still don't see how the breaker could be fully tightened without having the washer completely block the slits.

-Derek

vb

It is just for sealing. Either the washer is too soft or it is too thick, and you are tightening it so much that it distorts.

Geez HJ, no capitalized word?! Are you losing it??

I'll just go without it then. Even hand tight is enough to block the flow when the washer is in there. Looking at it, I don't see how it could possibly work with the washer in...