In an area subject to freezing, we have a remote FDC that supplies a riser room at the same level. The feed is through underground pipe.
Is the base of the FDC required to have an automatic drain similar to what's at the base of dry barrel fire hydrants? If not, how are these FDC's typically drained after use? Sent in anonymously for discussion. Click Title to View | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
7 Comments
Dan Wilder
1/29/2025 06:31:39 am
We have typically put in a "Slam Check/Velocity Check" or "Ball Drip" at the low end of the line (not under the building) wrapped in some burlap or fabric and some extra gravel to allow draining, but we don't bury our pipes that deep nor have a freezing issue as much as others in my zone so I would guess there are alternative means.
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Glenn Berger
1/29/2025 08:18:27 am
If I am reading this question correctly - You have a free-standing FDC and are asking how to ensure that no water is retained after use.
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J.H.
1/29/2025 08:46:52 am
If you look at a standard wafer (or swing) check valve, there is a drain port just above the valve seat.
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J.H.
1/29/2025 08:56:37 am
*To clarify, the ball drip valve gets installed on the check valve drain port.
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Robert Bennett
1/29/2025 10:30:04 am
Check valves will leak and that leakage and/or condensate must be drained. The use of a ball drip at the low point with a grave surround provides a convenient way to allow the water to drain into the earth and maintain the interior of the pipe free or water.
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Jack G
1/29/2025 10:46:17 am
You did say the piping was “ underground” so I m assuming DICL, OR Permastrand, or blue brute. ? (galv pipe installed “ underground “)
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Dave L.
1/29/2025 11:51:58 am
I have a yard-FDC outside my window right now that has a column of water sitting above ground level (probably remaining from the FDC test last year or a seeping check valve in the riser room) that's going to freeze soon. If there's not a check valve in a vault, we usually do as Dan described above; a ball-drip (remember most brass ball drips get installed horizontal), usually installed with a mechanical tee on the vertical or horizontal section of underground pipe, below the frost line. But since this is often designed by Civil, it often gets overlooked.
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