is there a difference betweem these 2 Back Flow Preventer?

[space-time]

besides the $2 price difference, they appear identical to me

http://www.acehardware.com/product/index...Id=1275292

http://www.acehardware.com/product/index...d=70985736

[btfc]

The pricier one is lead free.

[PizzaGod]

Those are vacuum breakers. If you have a steady flow of water, and want a true back flow preventer, this is the way to go.

This is the one that isn't lead free. The lead free is usually about $10 more.

[macphanatic]

Might be helpful to know the intended use.

[space-time]

macphanatic wrote:
Might be helpful to know the intended use.

I heard (but not verified) that local code requires these to be used on the outside spigot when attaching a garden hose. I have one, I need a second one.

[Ombligo]

I'm surprised they even make one with lead. Your never wrong going on the assumption that people are stupid and every water spigot will potentially be used for potable water.

I can see a lawsuit in assuming otherwise.

[JoeH]

A small amount of lead in a brass alloy improves its machinability. The percentage is less than 2%, and after a short period of use little leaches out of the brass. Old lead solder where it is exposed in a joint is a much greater contributor to lead leaching into water.