Test Outdoor Faucet Anti-Siphon Vacuum Breaker
Why it matters
A failed vacuum breaker allows contaminated hose water (pesticides, fertilizers, sewage) to backflow into potable supply, poisoning drinking water for your home and neighbors.
Stop forgetting to do this.
Hearth generates a personalized maintenance schedule so you never miss another test outdoor faucet anti-siphon vacuum breaker.
How to do it
- 1
Turn on each outdoor faucet and allow water to run for 10 seconds.
- 2
Attach a garden hose to the faucet; turn on the water.
- 3
While the water is running, pinch or block the hose end to create suction pressure.
- 4
If the faucet leaks or sprays water from the top (vacuum breaker outlet), the anti-siphon valve is failed.
- 5
Turn off the water; replace the vacuum breaker cartridge (usually a $15–30 part and 10-minute job) or replace the entire faucet if old.
- 6
Test again after replacement to confirm the valve holds and prevents backflow.