Which component would you typically find as part of a backflow preventer?

A backflow preventer is an essential component in irrigation systems designed to prevent the reverse flow of water from the irrigation system back into the public water supply. The inclusion of a pressure vacuum breaker as part of a backflow preventer is crucial because it actively protects against back siphonage, which can occur in situations where the water supply pressure drops.

Pressure vacuum breakers work by allowing air into the system when there is a drop in pressure, thus preventing water from being siphoned back into the clean water supply. This is critical to ensure that contaminants do not enter the potable water system, which could pose health risks. Their design typically incorporates a spring-loaded mechanism that closes when the system is pressurized, but allows air to enter if a negative pressure (a vacuum) occurs, effectively breaking the siphon.

Other components listed, while relevant to irrigation systems, serve different purposes. Quick coupling valves are used for manual operation and accessing certain areas of the irrigation system, SDR fittings are specific types of joints used in piping, and saddles serve as attachment points for lateral lines but do not provide backflow prevention. Understanding the role of a pressure vacuum breaker underscores its importance in maintaining safe and compliant irrigation practices.