Air Vents, Foot Valves and Anti Siphons are important tools because they keep your irrigation system maintained and prevent damage on the pipes and fittings.

What is an Air Vent?

Air vents are beneficial to irrigation systems to several reasons.  Air Vents release air in your irrigation system to prevent damage.  Controlling air trapped in pipes will increase uniformity and help reduce water hammer.  Water hammer causes damage to pipes and fittings.

Air vents allow air to exit the system when filling up to ensure proper flow rates and measurements when used with a flow meter. When the system is shut down air entering the system will allow the zone to drain instead of creating a siphon and pulling contaminants into the lines creating blockages or plugging issues.

Why are Foot Valves Important?

Foot Valves in aluminum and plastic, to complete your drip irrigation system.  Added an intake strainer for more filtration protection.

Foot valves can be found in ponds, pools and almost anywhere there is a pump.   Attach these valves to the end of your irrigation suction line going into the water.  They allow the pump to stay primed, letting liquid to flow in, but keeping it from flowing back out. The screen that covers the valve opening tend to get clogged over time. This is common in ponds and wells, so check it periodically.  We offer PVC threaded and glue on type foot valves.

If you’re looking for a strainer and foot valve combined, we carry sturdy aluminum ones.  They are designed to keep the suction line on the pump full allowing water to be available immediately so no damage is done to the pump components during start up. We have multiple sizes and designs of Air Vents, Foot Valves and Anti Siphons available to fit your needs.

What is a Vacuum Relief Valve?

Vacuum Relief Valves can also be used to allow air to exit the system on start up and enter on shut down. Air vents and vacuum relief valves should be installed at the highest points in the system for the most benefit.