Oatey Sure-Vent Air Admittance Valve (AAV) Model 39017 Instruction Manual

Product Overview

The Oatey Sure-Vent Air Admittance Valve (AAV) provides a venting solution for plumbing systems, particularly in situations where traditional venting to open air is not feasible, such as island sinks, remote bathroom groups, or remodel projects. This one-way valve is designed to equalize sewer and atmospheric pressures, allowing water to drain freely while preventing sewer gases from escaping into the building. It is sensitive to pressure changes, opening to allow air entry during negative pressure and closing by gravity to seal the vent terminal under no-flow conditions or positive internal pressures.

Key Features

• Sure-Vent air admittance valve with PVC Sch. 40 adapter
• Alternative to a secondary vent in a DWV system
• Vents up to 160 DFU Branch or 24 DFU Stack
• Approved for 1-1/2 in.–2 in. vent pipe
• Protective sleeve for grip during installation and debris protection
• 100% functionally tested at 1/4 in. H2O and 30 in. H2O for reliable performance
• Complies with ASSE Standard 1050 and 1051; International Plumbing Code (IPC) and Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) approved

Important Safety Information

• Before installation, consult your local municipality to confirm approval for AAV use in your area.
• The AAV must be installed vertically and cannot be more than 15 degrees out of level to ensure proper function.
• Determine the Drainage Fixture Unit (DFU) load of the fixture(s) to select the correct Oatey Sure-Vent AAV capacity.
• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during installation, such as gloves and eye protection.

Components

The Oatey Sure-Vent Air Admittance Valve (AAV) includes the valve unit and a PVC adapter for connection to plumbing lines.

Figure 1: Oatey Sure-Vent Air Admittance Valve and PVC adapter components. The valve unit is shown alongside its threaded PVC adapter.

Installation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the AAV

Carefully remove any protective plastic film or packaging from the AAV unit. Apply a thread sealant or thread tape to the male threads of the AAV to ensure a watertight seal during installation.

Figure 2: Removing the protective plastic film from the AAV. This step ensures the valve is ready for sealant application and installation.

Step 2: Determine Placement and Cut PVC Pipe

The AAV must be installed vertically and positioned a minimum of 4 inches above the horizontal branch drain pipe it serves. Measure the required length of PVC pipe for the connection and cut it cleanly. Ensure the pipe is chamfered and deburred after cutting.

Figure 3: An Oatey Sure-Vent AAV correctly installed vertically within a wall cavity, demonstrating proper orientation and placement relative to the drain line.

Step 3: Solvent Weld Connections

Apply PVC primer to the cut ends of the pipe and the inside of the adapter and sanitary tee. Follow with PVC cement, ensuring full coverage. Quickly and firmly join the pipe into the provided adapter and the top of the sanitary tee, holding for a few seconds to allow the solvent weld to set.

Step 4: Install AAV into Adapter

With thread tape already applied to the AAV's male threads, carefully screw the AAV into the female adapter. Hand-tighten the AAV until snug; do not overtighten. Ensure the AAV remains in a vertical position.

Figure 4: The protective sleeve on the AAV is designed to provide a secure grip during installation and to protect the valve from debris, ensuring its longevity and proper function.

Operation

The Oatey Sure-Vent AAV operates as a passive, one-way valve. When water drains from a fixture, it creates negative pressure (a vacuum) in the plumbing system. The AAV senses this pressure drop and opens, allowing fresh air to enter the system. This air prevents the vacuum from siphoning water out of the P-traps, which would otherwise allow sewer gases to enter the living space. Once the draining stops and the pressure equalizes, the AAV closes by gravity, sealing the system and preventing any sewer gases from escaping.

Figure 5: This diagram illustrates the internal mechanism of the Oatey Sure-Vent AAV, showing how the tension membrane moves between sealed, open, and pressure positions to regulate airflow and prevent gas escape.

Maintenance

Oatey Sure-Vent AAVs are designed for long-term, maintenance-free operation. However, like any mechanical device, they may eventually require replacement. The lifespan of an AAV can vary depending on usage and environmental factors.

To facilitate future maintenance or replacement, it is recommended to install the AAV in an easily accessible location. Avoid concealing it behind permanent structures.

Troubleshooting

Slow Drains or Gurgling Sounds

If you experience slow drainage or hear gurgling sounds from your fixtures, it may indicate that the AAV is not opening correctly. This could be due to debris obstructing the valve or a mechanical failure of the internal components.

• Solution: Inspect the AAV for any visible obstructions. If the issue persists, the AAV may need to be replaced.

Sewer Gas Odor

A persistent sewer gas odor in your home, particularly near fixtures vented by an AAV, suggests that the valve is not closing properly, allowing gases to escape. This can be caused by internal component failure or improper seating.

• Solution: Verify that the AAV is installed vertically and is not obstructed. If the odor continues, replace the AAV.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The Oatey Sure-Vent Air Admittance Valve comes with a Limited Warranty from the manufacturer. For specific details regarding warranty coverage, terms, and conditions, please refer to the official Oatey website or contact Oatey customer service directly.

For technical assistance, product inquiries, or support, please visit the Oatey official website or consult your local plumbing professional.