What is the main purpose of vacuum breakers in piping connections?

The main purpose of vacuum breakers in piping connections is to prevent backpressure. Vacuum breakers are devices designed to protect water systems from backflow, which can occur when there is a sudden drop in pressure in the system, creating a vacuum. If a vacuum forms, it could potentially draw contaminated water back into the clean water supply, posing a significant health risk.

The vacuum breaker allows air to enter the system, breaking the vacuum and thus preventing backflow. This mechanism is crucial in ensuring that potable water remains uncontaminated, which is a key aspect of water quality management in distribution systems.

Other options, while they may relate to water systems, do not accurately represent the function of vacuum breakers. Filtering contaminants or regulating temperature are handled by different types of devices, while reducing water pressure is not the primary focus of a vacuum breaker. The function is specifically centered on maintaining water safety and preventing contamination through backflow prevention.