Home Inspection Bellingham, WA (King of the House): Your dribbling air-gap

I overheard two people speaking the other day. One was explaining to the other that the air-gap on the sink was an overflow for the dishwasher. She commented that, at her house, it always dribbles water back into the sink. This is the second or third time I have heard that conversation. I have come to the realization that  people do not know what the air-gap does. It looks like a metal mushroom attached to the sink. Let me explain: They are required, by most codes, for dishwashers and water softeners. The device has no moving parts and works in part based on gravity. It is designed to eliminate a possible cross-connection between the potable water system and the sewage system. While not considered to be a large risk, without the air-gap, there is always a possibility that unexpected effluent from the sewage system could siphon back into the drinking water. When they spew, usually the hoses going to it, a disposal if it is in place, or the device itself should be cleaned. The air-gap is pretty simple to replace, in the realm of plumbing fittings, and they cost little. The one below was an award winner in my book. At least the kitchen would not catch on fire when the dishwasher was running.

• Air-gap information
• Clean the air-gap
• King of the House
• Bellingham MLS

• Rate this Post!

  Select Your Rating:

  • 5 Stars (Excellent!)
  • 4 Stars
  • 3 Stars
  • 2 Stars
  • 1 Stars (Poor)

• Share this Post

  Share With A Friend:

  Your Name Your Email

  Friend's Name Friend's Email

  Optional Message

  Send

• Print
• Social Bookmarking

  Add to Bookmarks: