Home inspectors in California should comment on the lack of an air gap in the kitchen, and in the instance of a newer installation usually results in some controversy. I will try to explain the need for this device as easy as possible. An air gap is a device that is usually chrome in color, (other colors are available), that is mounted on the top of the counter near the kitchen sink and facilitates proper dainage of the dishwasher. The lack of this device creates a potential health hazard due to contaminates that originate in drain pipes, drain trap, or the garbage disposal from siphoning back into the dishwasher. Even though it may be a top of the line appliance, and some manufaturer’s installation instructions may state that the appliance has a built in anti-siphon device or integral backflow device, and an additional air gap may not be necessary, California does require this device.
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