PVB repair means fixing or replacing the worn parts inside a pressure vacuum breaker, the backflow device on your sprinkler system. If your PVB leaks, spits water from the top, or fails its annual test, it needs repair because a faulty one can let irrigation water flow back into your drinking water. Irrigation Solutions of Las Vegas repairs, retests and replaces PVBs across the Las Vegas Valley.
A pressure vacuum breaker, or PVB, is a backflow prevention device installed on a home or business sprinkler system. It stops irrigation water, which can carry fertilizer, pesticides, soil and bacteria, from being siphoned back into the potable water supply.
Above ground, on the irrigation line just after the water supply connection and before the first valve.
Your household drinking water and the public water system.
It must be installed at least 12 inches above all downstream piping and sprinkler heads.
A certified backflow prevention assembly tester.
A PVB uses a spring-loaded check valve and an air inlet valve to keep water moving in one direction only.
Call for a PVB inspection if you notice any of these:
A licensed irrigation technician diagnoses the problem, replaces what is worn and tests the device so it meets code. Typical repair work includes:
Replacing worn or fouled seals that let water leak backward.
Swapping weak springs and damaged seats that no longer close tightly.
Cleaning or replacing the vent assembly that spits or sticks.
Resealing the cap and body to stop external leaks.
Checking operation, pressure and installation height.
Confirming the PVB holds and works properly after repair.
Minor repairs can be done by a skilled homeowner, but a PVB protects public drinking water, so testing and certification should go through a qualified professional.
A faulty PVB should be fixed or replaced as soon as possible to protect the potable water supply and public health.
Clark County’s final plumbing guidelines require the following for properties with irrigation:
PVB stands for pressure vacuum breaker, a backflow preventer that keeps irrigation water from flowing back into your drinking water.
The most common causes are a worn poppet or check valve seal, a weak spring, a dirty or stuck air inlet valve, or damaged O-rings. A technician can usually identify the cause in one visit.
Yes. Local plumbing code requires backflow prevention on irrigation systems in the Las Vegas area, and Clark County requires PVBs to be installed and certified by a certified backflow specialist.
At least 12 inches above all downstream piping, including the highest sprinkler head.
Replacing parts like a poppet or spring is possible with the right tools and knowledge. Because the device protects public water, testing and certification should be done by a qualified professional.
As soon as possible. A malfunctioning PVB can allow contaminated water into the potable supply.
Call our licensed Las Vegas irrigation technicians to troubleshoot your PVB and get it working correctly.
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