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Air Admittance Valves (AAV)

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Air Admittance Valves (AAVs) are plumbing devices that allow air to enter a drainage system when negative pressure develops during water discharge, helping maintain proper system pressure while preventing sewer gases from entering a building.  AAVs are used where permitted by local plumbing codes as an alternative venting method when installing a traditional roof-penetrating vent is impractical or restricted, such as in remodels involving island sinks or limited wall access.

Oatey Sure-Vent® Air Admittance Valves provide a reliable, code-compliant solution for venting plumbing fixtures in residential and commercial applications.

SubCategory List
Air Admittance Valves (AAV)
AAV
AAV Accessories

Oatey Sure-Vent® AAVs are engineered for dependable performance and long-term reliability. Trusted by plumbing professionals, these valves are designed to support efficient wastewater flow while maintaining trap seal protection and indoor air quality across a wide range of plumbing installations.


How Do Oatey Air Admittance Valves Work?

Oatey Air Admittance Valves open automatically to admit air into the drainage system when wastewater flows through the drain and negative pressure is created. This air intake equalizes pressure within the piping, allowing wastewater to flow freely and helping maintain proper trap seals.

When the system is not in use, the valve closes tightly to prevent sewer gases from escaping into the living or occupied space. This pressure-responsive design eliminates the need for vent pipes through the roof in approved applications, offering increased installation flexibility.


Are Oatey AAVs Code-Compliant?

Oatey Sure-Vent® Air Admittance Valves comply with ASSE Standards 1050 and 1051 and are IAPMO listed. They are accepted by many plumbing codes in the United States and Canada for venting individual fixtures, branch lines, and, in some cases, entire systems, subject to local code requirements and installation conditions.

Always consult local plumbing codes and authorities having jurisdiction to confirm acceptance and proper use.

Oatey Sure-Vent® AAV Models and DFU Ratings

Drainage Fixture Unit (DFU) ratings are used to determine the appropriate AAV model based on fixture load and system design requirements.

Model / Size Stack DFU Branch DFU Code Compliance Typical Application
Mini Sure-Vent® 8 24 ASSE 1050/1051, IAPMO Single fixture, small bath
Standard Sure-Vent® 20 160 ASSE 1050/1051, IAPMO Multiple fixtures, kitchen
Commercial Sure-Vent® 160 500 ASSE 1050/1051, IAPMO Commercial, large systems

Note: Accessories for AAVs do not have Stack DFU or Branch DFU ratings, as they are not venting devices.


How to Install an Oatey AAV: Step-by-Step Guide

Installation requirements may vary by application and local plumbing codes. Always follow manufacturer instructions and applicable regulations.

  1. Determine Placement: Install the AAV at least four inches above the horizontal branch drain and a minimum of six inches above the finished insulation level when installed in an attic.
  2. Prepare the Pipe: Cut and clean the vent pipe at the intended installation location.
  3. Attach the AAV: Secure the AAV using the appropriate fitting or adapter.
  4. Check for Accessibility: Install the valve in a location that remains accessible for inspection, maintenance, or replacement.
  5. Test the System: Run water through the fixture and verify proper air admittance and valve operation.

Note: Oatey AAVs are not designed for outdoor installation or direct exposure to UV rays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are air admittance valves (AAVs)?

Air Admittance Valves (AAVs) are plumbing devices that allow air to enter a drainage system when negative pressure occurs, helping maintain proper system pressure while preventing sewer gases from entering the building.

Are Oatey air admittance valves code-compliant?

Yes, Oatey Sure-Vent Air Admittance Valves comply with ASSE Standards 1050 and 1051 and are IAPMO listed, making them acceptable under many plumbing codes when installed in accordance with local regulations and manufacturer instructions.

What are the benefits of using an AAV over a traditional vent?

AAVs simplify installation, reduce roof penetrations, and are ideal for remodels or locations where venting through the roof is not feasible.

Can an Oatey Sure-Vent be installed outside?

No. Oatey Sure-Vents are not designed for exposure to ultraviolet rays and should not be installed outdoors.

Can the Sure-Vent be installed in the attic?

Yes, but the attic must have an access point for maintenance, and the valve should be installed at least six inches above the insulation. Extreme temperatures and insulation fibers can affect performance.

How high above the fixture trap should the Sure-Vent be located?

The Sure-Vent should be installed a minimum of four inches above the horizontal branch drain (trap).

Can AAVs be installed if the home has a septic system and not city sewer services?

Yes, with exceptions. Remember that septic systems build up positive pressure as the organic waste breaks down in the tank, this creates positive pressure. This positive pressure can affect the performance of the Sure-Vent, and you may have to add a vent on the inlet side of the septic tank if this happens. The vent on the septic tank is most commonly recognized as a pipe that looks like a candy cane.

Can the AAV malfunction and what are the signs?

Yes. Any AAV can malfunction or not operate properly because it is a mechanical device. Signs of that the Sure-Vent is not operating as intended, are foul odors. If you smell foul odors (sewer smell) near a plumbing fixture which has a Sure-Vent installed, this means the Sure-Vent is not closing properly to create a positive seal and should be replaced. Some individuals relate slow drains to the Sure-Vent not operating properly. The Sure-Vent is not the issue, the slow drain is related to a partial blockage within the drain itself. A partially blocked drain will fill with water when the fixture is draining, and the Sure-Vent recognizes the positive pressure from the restriction and stays in closed position to stop backflow out of the Sure-Vent. You should have your drain cleaned when this occurs.

How do air admittance valves work?

Air Admittance Valves open automatically to admit air into the drainage system when wastewater flows and negative pressure develops, equalizing pressure and supporting proper drainage. When not in use, the valve closes to block sewer gases from escaping into occupied spaces.

Can the Sure-Vent be installed horizontally?

No. Sure-Vent must be installed as close to vertical as possible. You cannot have the Sure-Vent tilted more than 15° from side to side, otherwise it will not operate properly.

Related Resources

Blog

Sewer Gas Odor in Your House and What to Do About It

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Case Study

How the Oatey® Sure-Vent® Air Admittance Valve Helped Complete a Complex Drain Repair-Without Roof Cuts For Venting

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Videos

How to Install an AAV in a MODA Box

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