Air Release Valves

The ARV released any entrapped air caught at the high point of the system. This air can come from pressure changes, the pumps, through any openings, andor through fittings. There is air trapped at high point elevations because air is lighter than water and there is nothing forcing it down the pipe system. If this air is left in the system it can reduce efficiency or can cause water hammering. In more extreme cases it can cause a total “air lock” within the system. ARVs are also used in a lift station design when the piping leaving the system has a high point.