Anti-Siphon Valves (Air Gaps)

admin — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 15:39:33 +0000

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 drainage 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, and because the water supply to this appliance enters level to, or below the drain line, it is necessary to prevent cross connection, or back siphoning which could allow drain water to mix with supply water. One can imagine the health risks in any one of these events. Most of the newer high end appliances have a built in anti-siphon device or integral backflow device that is connected to the drain hose from the dishwasher, and is clearly visible inside the cabinet under the kitchen sink, and an additional air gap on top of the sink may not be necessary, Miele being one of those brands. Local building departments have differing views of these built in devices as to whether they are accepted or not, and I recommend inquiry with the governing building department in regards to their specific requirements.

"UPC 807.4 No domestic dishwashing machine shall be directly connected to a drainage system or food waste disposer without the use of an approved dishwasher airgap fitting on the discharge side of the dishwashing machine. Listed airgaps shall be installed with the flood level (FL) marking at or above the flood level of the sink or drainboard, whichever is higher".

Kimmell Inspection Services » Dishwashers

Anti-Siphon Valves (Air Gaps)