Importance

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Abstract

Disclosed is a vacuum breaker and backflow prevention device for a faucet comprising a body member having a tubular outlet portion integrally joined by a web to a tubular inlet portion of larger diameter than the outlet portion, the web having a plurality of vent holes therethrough and peripherally supporting a flexible, resilient diaphragm and overlying plate member. The plate member has an outer region provided with a plurality of through holes and a central depending shank portion extending through a central hole in the diaphragm. The tubular inlet portion has internal screw threads for attachment to a faucet outlet member whereby the plate and diaphragm are retained in the tubular inlet portion by the outlet member. The tubular outlet portion has external threads for attachment of a hose coupling whereby more than slight water pressure from the faucet causes the diaphragm to flex away from the plate and the shank so that water flows through the holes in the plate and through the central hole in the diaphragm to the outlet portion and the diaphragm covers and blocks the vent holes. A back pressure condition or a vacuum in the faucet causes the diaphragm to seal around the shank and to uncover the vent holes so that water can not flow into the faucet. An air inlet valve upstream of the device ensures that it drains automatically when the faucet is turned off and no hose is connected to it.

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First Claim