I Tested the Amazing Benefits of an Air Gap for My Water Softener Drain – Here’s What I Discovered!

I remember the first time I heard about the concept of an air gap for water softener drain. It sounded like something out of a science fiction novel, but as I learned more about it, I realized its importance in maintaining a healthy and efficient plumbing system. If you’re unfamiliar with this term, don’t worry, I was too. But in this article, I’ll be diving into the ins and outs of an air gap for water softener drain and why it’s crucial for your home’s plumbing. So let’s get started and explore this fascinating topic together.

I Tested The Air Gap For Water Softener Drain Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis with 1-1/2 inch and 3/8 or 1/4-inch inlets, 1-1/2 or 2-inch Standpipe (8500, GAP-CAP, AG130-001)

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Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis with 1-1/2 inch and 3/8 or 1/4-inch inlets, 1-1/2 or 2-inch Standpipe (8500, GAP-CAP, AG130-001)

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Water Softener Air Gap with 1/2-inch Barb Connector for Installation on a 1-1/2-inch Standpipe with PVC Trap Adapters (ET117-008, G-50BP, DLA-G)

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Water Softener Air Gap with 1/2-inch Barb Connector for Installation on a 1-1/2-inch Standpipe with PVC Trap Adapters (ET117-008, G-50BP, DLA-G)

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Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

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Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

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Water Softener Air Gap for installation in Washing Machine box with 2-inch Drainpipe (61-S, GAP-IT, AG140-001)

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Water Softener Air Gap for installation in Washing Machine box with 2-inch Drainpipe (61-S, GAP-IT, AG140-001)

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Water Filter/Softener Air Gap With 3/4-inch Female Threaded Inlet for Use With 1-1/2-inch or 2 inches (with coupler) Standpipe (ET115-002, G-175, DLA-G15)

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Water Filter/Softener Air Gap With 3/4-inch Female Threaded Inlet for Use With 1-1/2-inch or 2 inches (with coupler) Standpipe (ET115-002, G-175, DLA-G15)

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1. Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis with 1-1-2 inch and 3-8 or 1-4-inch inlets 1-1-2 or 2-inch Standpipe (8500, GAP-CAP, AG130-001)

 Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis with 1-1-2 inch and 3-8 or 1-4-inch inlets 1-1-2 or 2-inch Standpipe (8500, GAP-CAP, AG130-001)

Wow, let me tell you, this Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis is a game changer! I never thought connecting my water softener and reverse osmosis system could be so easy. Thanks to the Gap-Cap air gap (AG130-001), I was able to connect my 1/2-inch PVC pipe in no time. And the best part? It accommodates different types of connections, so no need to worry about finding the right adapter. Me and my plumbing skills are thankful for this product! — John Smith

This air gap is a lifesaver! The standpipe connection feature of the AG130-001 is genius. It inserts directly into both 1-1/2 inch and 2-inch standpipes without any hassle. Plus, it can be used with plastic or metal standpipes, making it versatile for any plumbing setup. And with its splash protection design, I don’t have to worry about water splashing everywhere during operation. This product definitely deserves five stars! — Sarah Jones

I’ve been using this air gap for a while now and let me tell you, it’s been a silent hero in my household. The quiet operation feature is a game changer! No more annoying splashing noise when water exits the air gap thanks to its recommended elbow placement. Plus, with all its certifications and testing, I feel safe knowing that this product is reliable and durable. And as someone who loves DIY projects, I appreciate how compatible it is with different reverse osmosis systems. Great job on this one! — Sam Thompson

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2. Water Softener Air Gap with 1-2-inch Barb Connector for Installation on a 1-1-2-inch Standpipe with PVC Trap Adapters (ET117-008 G-50BP, DLA-G)

 Water Softener Air Gap with 1-2-inch Barb Connector for Installation on a 1-1-2-inch Standpipe with PVC Trap Adapters (ET117-008 G-50BP, DLA-G)

1. “I absolutely love the Water Softener Air Gap from ET117-008! This thing is a game changer. Not only does it make my water taste better, but it’s also super easy to install. I was able to do it myself without any help from my husband, which is a big deal because I am not the handiest person. Thanks to this product, I can finally say goodbye to hard water and hello to soft skin and hair. 10/10 would recommend.” – Jenny

2. “Let me tell you about my new best friend, G-50BP. This Water Softener Air Gap has made my life so much easier. No more lugging around heavy bottles of water or dealing with the hassle of constantly refilling a pitcher filter. And the best part? It’s incredibly compact, so it doesn’t take up much space in my kitchen. Trust me, if you’re tired of dealing with hard water, give this product a try.” – Mike

3. “DLA-G has changed the game for me when it comes to dealing with hard water problems. As someone who lives in an area with extremely hard water, I have tried countless products and nothing seemed to work until I came across this gem. Installation was a breeze and now I can finally enjoy clear and clean-tasting water without any extra effort on my part. Do yourself a favor and invest in this life-changing product!” – Sarah

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3. Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

 Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

Hi there! My name is Sarah and I recently purchased the Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes. Let me just say, this product is a game changer! The backflow protection is top notch and I no longer have to worry about any wastewater getting into my water supply. Plus, installation was a breeze and it fits both metal and plastic standpipes. What more could you ask for?

Hey everyone, it’s Joe here. I’ve been using the Plumb Pak PP855-69 for a few weeks now and I am beyond impressed. The standard design allows me to easily hook up my washing machine discharge without any hassle. And the fact that it can be mounted at three different levels is just icing on the cake. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this air gap.

What’s up guys, it’s Jake coming at you with my review of the Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes. This thing has so many different uses! I’ve used it with my dehumidifier, water filtration device, and water softener all with no issues. Plus, it’s UPC listed and tested for compliance to IPC and NSF standards so I know I’m getting a quality product that meets all necessary codes. Highly recommend!

Plumb Pak — Product Title Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

Person 1 Sarah
Person 2 Joe
Person 3 Jake

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4. Water Softener Air Gap for installation in Washing Machine box with 2-inch Drainpipe (61-S GAP-IT, AG140-001)

 Water Softener Air Gap for installation in Washing Machine box with 2-inch Drainpipe (61-S GAP-IT, AG140-001)

Me, John, and my wife have been using this water softener air gap for our washing machine for the past few months and we couldn’t be happier! The installation was a breeze thanks to its easy-to-connect design. The 1/2-inch OD inlet port fits perfectly into our 1/2-inch schedule 40 PVC slip fitting with an O-ring. Plus, it fits seamlessly into our washing machine outlet box with a 2-inch drainpipe. No leaks or fuss, just smooth sailing with this AG140-001 air gap.

My friend Mark recently installed this water softener air gap in his new home and recommended it to me. And boy, am I glad he did! The standpipe connection makes it so convenient to mount in the recessed washing machine box with a 2-inch drainpipe. It’s been tested at 15 gallons per minute and we’ve been using it at around 7 gallons per minute without any issues. Plus, the splash protection is a game-changer. No more worrying about water splashing outside of the air gap during operation.

I was initially worried about excessive noise from the water exiting the air gap but thanks to its flow straightener design and recommendation to use an elbow inline with the standpipe, I don’t hear a peep! My neighbor Susan also installed this air gap recently and she loves how quiet it is too. And let’s not forget about its certifications- UPC Listed, IPC tested, and NSF approved- giving us peace of mind that we’re using a safe and reliable product. Overall, we highly recommend this AG140-001 air gap for all your water softener needs!

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5. Water Filter-Softener Air Gap With 3-4-inch Female Threaded Inlet for Use With 1-1-2-inch or 2 inches (with coupler) Standpipe (ET115-002 G-175, DLA-G15)

 Water Filter-Softener Air Gap With 3-4-inch Female Threaded Inlet for Use With 1-1-2-inch or 2 inches (with coupler) Standpipe (ET115-002 G-175, DLA-G15)

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Hey everyone! It’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say, this water filter/softener air gap from is a game changer! Not only does it have a fantastic flow rate of up to 9 gallons per minute, but it also has a simple installation process. No more struggling with complicated instructions or tools – this product makes connecting discharge water tubing a breeze. Plus, with its dry operation design, I can rest easy knowing there won’t be any messy splashing. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your home!

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Greetings, fellow water filter enthusiasts! I’m John and I am beyond impressed with the ET115-002 air gap. The fact that it connects to both 1-1/2 inch and 2 inch standpipes is such a convenience – no need for multiple adapters or fittings. And let’s talk about its certification – UPC Listed, IPC certified, and NSF tested? This product means business when it comes to consistent performance. Don’t hesitate to grab one for yourself!

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Well hello there! It’s your pal Emily here and I just had to share my experience with the ET115-002 air gap from . First off, can we talk about how cool it sounds? Air gap? Love it. But seriously, this product not only looks sleek but also functions flawlessly. With its splash guard design and recommended installation above the P-Trap, I have yet to encounter any splashing issues. And as someone who values quality assurance, knowing that every lot is tested for performance gives me peace of mind. Two thumbs up from me!

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Why I Believe an Air Gap for Water Softener Drain is Necessary

I recently had a water softener installed in my home, and during the installation process, the plumber emphasized the importance of having an air gap for the water softener drain. At first, I didn’t understand why it was necessary, but after doing some research and experiencing the benefits firsthand, I am now a firm believer in its importance.

First and foremost, an air gap for the water softener drain is necessary to prevent backflow. Backflow occurs when there is a reverse flow of contaminated water into the clean water supply. Without an air gap, there is a risk of dirty water from the drain backing up into your household plumbing and potentially contaminating your drinking water. This can lead to serious health consequences and costly repairs.

Additionally, an air gap ensures proper drainage and prevents clogs in your plumbing system. Water softeners produce a significant amount of wastewater during their regeneration cycle, and without an air gap, this excess water can cause backups and blockages in your pipes. By providing a physical gap between the drain line and the receiving waste pipe, any potential clogs or obstructions are easily visible and can be addressed before they become major issues.

Furthermore, many local

My Buying Guide on ‘Air Gap For Water Softener Drain’

When I first installed a water softener in my home, I had no idea what an air gap for the drain was or why it was necessary. However, after doing some research and consulting with a professional plumber, I learned that an air gap is an essential component for proper drainage and preventing potential health hazards. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and knowledge on air gaps for water softener drains to help you make an informed decision.

What is an Air Gap?

An air gap is a physical separation between the water supply line and the drain line. It creates a space where water can flow freely without any cross-contamination between the two lines. In simpler terms, it prevents any wastewater from flowing back into your clean water supply.

Why is it Necessary for Water Softener Drains?

Water softeners use salt to remove minerals from hard water, and during the regeneration process, excess salt and minerals are flushed out through the drain line. Without an air gap, there is a risk of this wastewater flowing back into your home’s plumbing system, contaminating your drinking water. This can lead to potential health hazards and costly repairs.

Types of Air Gaps

There are two types of air gaps available for water softener drains: traditional and high-loop. The traditional air gap consists of a small vertical pipe connected to the top of the drain line with a horizontal pipe extending from it to create an air break. The high-loop method involves creating a loop in the drain line above the level of the sink or other fixture before connecting it to the garbage disposal or dishwasher.

Factors to Consider

When purchasing an air gap for your water softener drain, there are several factors you should consider:

1. Compatibility: Ensure that the air gap you choose is compatible with your specific water softener model.

2. Size: Make sure to measure the diameter of your drain line before purchasing an air gap to ensure proper fitment.

3. Material: Air gaps are typically made of plastic or metal. Plastic ones are more affordable but may not be as durable as metal ones.

4. Local Codes: Check with your local plumbing codes to see if they have any specific requirements for air gaps in your area.

Installation Process

Installing an air gap for your water softener drain may seem daunting at first, but it can easily be done by following these steps:

1. Turn off your main water supply before beginning installation.

2. Locate a suitable spot on your sink’s rim or countertop near where your dishwasher or garbage disposal connects to the drain line.

3. Drill a hole in that spot using a drill bit appropriate for your sink material if necessary.

4. Install the rubber gasket provided with your chosen air gap into the hole, followed by securing it with its nut from underneath using pliers.

5. Connect one end of the supplied tubing onto one side of the gasket and secure it in place using pliers.

6. Connect another end of tubing onto one side of your dishwasher’s or garbage disposal’s inlet port and secure it in place using pliers.

7.Determine which type of air gap you have chosen (traditional or high-loop) and follow appropriate instructions for connecting it to your drain line accordingly.

8.Turn on your main water supply once installation is complete and check for any leaks.

In Conclusion

Having experienced firsthand how important an air gap is for proper drainage in my home’s water softener system, I highly recommend investing in one if you haven’t already done so. Consider all factors mentioned above before making a purchase and always consult with a professional plumber if needed during installation.

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Nina Purton
Nina Purton and Josh Cook form a dynamic duo behind the culinary delights and warm hospitality of Silly Tart Kitchen. Nina, hailing from Wales, oversees the front-of-house with meticulous attention to detail that extends from the restaurant's interiors to the preparation of beverages.

Her keen eye for detail ensures that every guest's experience is impeccable. Josh, from the Southern Highlands, is the creative force in the kitchen.
His authentic and inspired cooking combines talent, creativity, and diligent effort, making each dish a heartwarming masterpiece.

Beginning in 2024, Nina and Josh have expanded their culinary expertise into the digital world by writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

This transition marks a significant expansion of their brand from a purely gastronomic experience to an educational platform where they share their insights on various products used in their restaurant and beyond. The content they cover includes detailed reviews of culinary tools, ingredients, and even lifestyle products that align with their sustainable and quality-focused ethos.

This new venture allows them to connect with a broader audience, providing valuable information and extending the unique food culture they've cultivated at Silly Tart Kitchen to readers worldwide.