There are several different kinds of air gaps in the plumbing industry. Simply put, an air gap is a physical gap (air space) between potable (clean) and non-potable (dirty and contaminated) water.
For example, Texas plumbing code states that the space between the outlet of a bathroom faucet spout and the top of the sink (basin or vessel) shall not be less than 1 inch. That one-inch gap keeps your potable water supply separated from potentially dirty water in a full sink.
However, in most residential cases the air gap we are referring to is that funny, round three-inch tall thing that makes odd noises and sometimes spews water all over your kitchen counter. Its function is to allow the dishwasher drain hose to breathe.
This dishwasher is vented with an air gap installed next to the faucet on the kitchen sink.
Your Dishwasher Air Gap
The dishwasher pumps wastewater thru a ½ inch hose up to the air gap then flows down into a large ¾ inch hose. This allows gravity to do its job, letting air in so the hoses will drain. Without the dishwasher air gap, it would be like drawing water from a glass with a straw, then putting your finger over one end. Without air flow the water in the straw is trapped inside.
Problem: Water Coming Out of Dishwasher Air Gap
It’s a good thing that more often than not there is a solution to this messy plumbing problem. Re-routing the drain hose to its highest point under the counter and maintaining kink free flow to the drain pipe or disposal is the only proper other way to go. Loose hoses that curl up or twist back and forth tend to hold waste water. And that trapped wastewater quickly becomes the source of “that smell” that you really want to get rid of.
So call your Plano plumber to get it done right. Materials for modifying your dishwasher drain line are small, but labor is hard to predict. This isn’t usually a difficult job, but sometimes cabinet size, drain assembly placement or dishwasher removal play a factor.
Home Sellers Beware
If you are planning on selling your home, some cities and municipalities require air gaps and the buyer’s home inspector WILL note it.
We hope this answers your question of What is an air gap – and fills in the gap about air gaps. Call Gary’s Quality Plumbing, your local Plano plumbing service at 972-424-6479 when your plumbing needs repair or with any questions about air gaps.
Article by J. Adam Proctor, M38474, a Registered Master Plumber by Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners, offering over 20 years of experience with Gary’s Quality Plumbing and serving the Plano, Dallas, Richardson, Allen, and McKinney areas.
