Are AAV accessories compatible with sump pump vents?
Yes, but you must confirm local code approval and manufacturer recommendations before venting a sealed sump pit with a waste grinder pump. Proper venting design is critical for drainage flow.
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.
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 AAV malfunction and what are the signs?
Yes — because a Sure-Vent is a mechanical device, it can fail over time. The clearest sign is a foul sewer odor near a fixture where a Sure-Vent is installed, which means the valve is not sealing properly and should be replaced. Slow drains, on the other hand, are typically unrelated to the valve. When a drain is partially blocked, it fills with water during use, causing the Sure-Vent to detect positive pressure and remain closed. If you're experiencing slow drains, have the drain cleaned rather than replacing the valve.
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.
What is the difference between positive and negative pressure, how does it affect the Sure-Vent?
Negative pressure in a DWV is created when a drain or fixture has fluids flowing through them, this is why a vent is required. Without a vent the water would flow very slowly or not at all. Example: stick a straw in a glass of water and before you remove the straw, put you thumb over the top of the straw. When you remove the straw, the water stays in the straw because there is no vent. When you remove your thumb, the water flows out of the straw because you have a vent. The Sure-Vent allows each plumbing fixture and drain to receive the needed air to drain properly. Positive pressure is present when the city sewers are relieving pressure that is designed to push back up through the building sewer and eventually out of the roof vent on your home or building. While this positive pressure is being released and your plumbing fixtures and or drains are not being used, the Sure-Vent will remain closed. This is important because if the Sure-Vent did not protect you from positive pressure, your home would fill up with foul odors.
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.
Is the Sure-vent approved for use in a RV?
Yes, with exceptions. When the RV is stationary, the Sure-Vent will properly vent the drains for the kitchen and bathroom. If the RV is in motion and depending on how the DWV system was assembled from the factory, positive pressure could stop the Sure-Vent from opening.