PVB installation height?

[jcom]

I am designing a system with the stub out in the back yard. The stub out is several feet lower than the front yard. If it is necessary to have the PVB higher than the lowest head and the homeowner does not want several feet of pipe in the air by his deck, what are my options? ;)

I am planning on using a Febco 765 1" backflow device.

Also, does anyone have any experience with the rotary RBird nozzles for their spray heads. With the GPM of the rotarys, I could put many more on a zone and just regulate the time. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance for all the info.

John :waving:

[CAL-LANDSCAPER]

PVB and any anti-syphon devise should be 6 to 12 inches above the highest sprinkler head.
Check your local building codes for requirements.
If your stub out to the back yard is 2 feet lower than the system,
You might need to start the system from the front mainline and come around the house to stay at a more level elevation.
Then you only need to have one pvb at the start of ALL systems.

[Grassmechanic]

You won't be able to use the PVB. You'll have to use a RPB. They can be used for systems where the heads are located higher than the backflow preventer. Check with local bldg. dept. Also, let the homeowner know that this is a much more expensive option, then he may not mind the height of a PVB. :D

[Wet_Boots]

The rotor mist-head-nozzle replacements should be saved for system renovations. It will be years before their long-term reliability will be known.

As for a PVB installation that needs to be at an unbeautiful height, you might be able to exit the house at the point where you already have the electric meter, gas meter, air conditioning, and so on. One more device won't be as much of an eyesore as it would be on its own.

[Broker]

Already good advice on the backflow relating to 12" higher then any head or pipe. Let me know how you like the MPR rotor nozzles for spray bodies concerning zoning with MPR 5000series rotors.

[Mdirrigation]

A rpz backflow can be used in this event . Or come out of the house at the rear , install a blow out point , then run pipe to the front where the evevation is higher and use a PVB.

[Broker]

When we run into homes like that we also would just install a rpz

[Broker]

Is it mostly code in your different area's to have the rpz outside or inside. Around here every area is different for residentials. I prefer an outside installation due to the fact of possible discharge.

[MOlawnman]

In Missouri there is no code regulating where the RPZ should be installed, it just has to be at least 18" above ground. It doesn't have to be above the highest head, it just has to be elevated. Also we are not allowed to install PVB's period. They must be RPZ's or double checks. I personally prefer the4 double check because they can be installed in a pit which makes for a much cleaner installation.

As far as the MPRotator nozzles, we use them all the time, retrofits and new systems. I love them and I think they are a great invention!!!!

[Wet_Boots]

Inside installation of an RPZ, unless it's in a utility room with a floor drain, is taking a big chance. One dilemma that faces installers that have a choice between a DCA (double check valve assembly) and a RPZ (reduced pressure zone device) is that the future could bring a change in the plumbing code that would no longer allow the DCA, on account of that device not being rated to protect against toxic backflow. Some locales, that once had requirements for DCA's, tightened their codes, and switched to devices rated for toxic backflow (RPZ and PVB) - none of the older installations were 'grandfathered' and they all had to be upgraded to comply with the new rules. Don't make the mistake of assuming your present plumbing will always pass muster in the future, unless you are already using RPZ's and, where permitted, PVB's.

[DanaMac]

Also we are not allowed to install PVB's period. They must be RPZ's or double checks. I personally prefer the4 double check because they can be installed in a pit which makes for a much cleaner installation.


Hey Mowlawn - it's odd with the differnet codes because we can't use double checks here but PVBs are ok and used on probably between 70-80% of the homes here. Rps can be put in a basement but they have to have a catch basin attached and pipe running to the floor drain. But things are rarely checked out here and residentials never get tested nor required to.

[MOlawnman]

As far as checking things here.....No one comes around to check the install, and I have found many incorrect installs of backflow preventers, but if you don't have your device tested and certified when the local water department says.....they will shut off your water and lock it out. I have even seen them remove the meter from the pit!!!--This does present a lucrative opportunity for an enterprising backflow tester........

[MikeK]

A little on the rain bird or MP rotator nozzles..
We started using them last year and we just love them. In my opinon they are one of the best products to come out in the last few years for the Irrigation market, Just behind Blazing saddles and wireless rain sensors.
Yes, you can put a ton of them on a zone and get by with fewer zones, this gives you an edge over the competition. Use them wherever practical