What device is used to separate potable water from other water systems?

The device that is utilized to separate potable water from other water systems is a siphon break. A siphon break is specifically designed to prevent the backflow of non-potable water into a potable water system, ensuring that the drinking water supply is protected from contamination. This is particularly important in systems where there may be a risk of cross-contamination, such as when non-potable water systems are operating under negative pressure.

By allowing air to enter the line under certain circumstances, the siphon break ensures that there is no siphoning effect that could draw water from a non-potable source into a potable water supply. This device is crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of drinking water supplies and is a key element in plumbing and water distribution systems that are subject to potential contamination.

In contrast, pressure regulators are primarily used to control the water pressure within a system, accumulator tanks store water to help manage pressure fluctuations, and check valves allow flow in one direction to prevent backflow, but they do not specifically address the issue of separating potable from non-potable water sources.