AAV

Oatey® Sure-Vent® Air Admittance Valves (AAVs) provide a reliable, space-saving solution for ventilation in plumbing systems, eliminating the need for costly and complex vent piping installations. Designed to open under negative pressure, these valves allow air to enter the drainage system to equalize pressure, effectively preventing the siphoning of trap seals and blocking the escape of sewer gases.

Each Sure-Vent AAV is manufactured with precision to meet ASSE Standards 1050 and 1051, and all sizes are IAPMO listed for assured quality. Available in four sizes, from 8 Stack/20 Branch DFU to 160 Branch/500 Stack DFU, Oatey Sure-Vent AAVs suit a range of residential and commercial needs, offering efficiency, durability, and compliance across various applications.

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

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