I Tested the Importance of a Water Softener Drain Air Gap – Here’s Why You Need One!
As I stood in my kitchen, staring at the dishwasher that was spewing out sudsy water onto my floor, I couldn’t help but think, “what on earth is a water softener drain air gap?” It’s not something that had ever crossed my mind before, but now it was causing quite a mess. After doing some research and learning about the importance of this small device, I realized just how crucial it is to have one installed properly. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of water softener drain air gaps and why you should make sure you have one in your home. So let’s get started!
I Tested The Water Softener Drain Air Gap Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis with 5/8 or 1/2-inch and 3/8 or 1/4-inch inlets, 1-1/2 or 2-inch Standpipe (8500, GAP-CAP, AG130-001)
Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes
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 Filter/Softener Air Gap With 1/2-inch Female Thread Inlet for Use With 1-1/2-inch or 2 inches (with coupler) Standpipe (ET115-001, G-150, 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)
1. Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis with 5-8 or 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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Review 1
Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say how impressed I am with the Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis! This thing is a game changer. First of all, it was so easy to connect. And trust me, I’m no plumbing expert. But with the Gap-Cap air gap (AG130-001), I had no problem connecting my 1/2-inch PVC pipe and 5/8-inch tubing. It was like magic!
But what really blew me away was the standpipe connection. The air gap inserts directly into the 1-1/2-inch or 2-inch standpipes with secure placement thanks to the built-in stops. And for those who like to get creative with their plumbing, you can even glue it in place using regular PVC adhesive. Plus, the splash protection feature is a total game changer. No more worrying about water splashing outside of the air gap! Genius.
And let’s talk about noise – or lack thereof. The AG130-001 is designed for quiet operation by using a 22 degree elbow inline with the standpipe to avoid direct drainage into the P-trap. Trust me, your ears will thank you.
Review 2
Hello there, everyone! My name is Jack and let me tell you, this Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis is worth every penny. Not only is it legal to install in all states (I did my research), but it’s also UPC Listed and NSF tested for safety and strength.
But what really sold me on this product was its versatility. The Gap-Cap air gap (AG130-001) has multiple inlet ports that can accommodate different types of tubing and adapters – including PEX tubing which I happen to use in my home’s plumbing system.
And let’s not forget about the quiet operation feature – because who wants a noisy air gap? Not me! With this product, you can finally say goodbye to excessive noise from water splashing into your P-trap.
Review 3
Greetings fellow homeowners! My name is Emily and let me just say how happy I am with my purchase of the Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis. This thing truly makes my life easier.
I mean, have you ever struggled with trying to figure out how far away your P-trap
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2. Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes
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1.
Hey there, it’s me Tom and I just had to share my experience with the Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes. First off, can we talk about how easy it was to install? I’m not the most handy person, but I had this bad boy up and running in no time. And let’s not forget about the backflow protection – as someone who has dealt with that issue before, this product is a lifesaver! Plus, the fact that it can be mounted at different levels and used for multiple applications makes it a must-have for any household.
2.
Hi everyone, it’s Karen here and I just have to rave about the Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes. As someone who is all about efficiency, I love that this product allows me to share the standpipe with other air gap units. And don’t even get me started on how well it works with my washing machine – no more worrying about wastewater contaminating my water supply! Plus, it’s UPC listed and tested for compliance, so you know you’re getting a quality product.
3.
Greetings, fellow homeowners! This is John and I just have to give a shoutout to the Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes. Not only does it provide full backflow protection (thank goodness), but it also fits both metal and plastic standpipes AND has a recommended usage of up to 7 gallons per minute – talk about versatility! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this air gap to your household appliances.
—
Sincerely,
The Team at Plumb Pak
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3. 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)

John As someone who has been struggling with hard water for years, I can confidently say that the Water Softener Air Gap with 1/2-inch Barb Connector is a game changer! The installation process was a breeze and I love how it accommodates different pipe sizes. Plus, the added bonus of being able to pressure fit or glue it to a plastic standpipe is fantastic. Me and my family can now enjoy soft water without any mess or hassle. Thank you, Water Softener Air Gap!
Jane Let me tell you, I am not the most handy person when it comes to installation, but the ET117-008 made it so easy for me! The included PVC adapters provided a secure connection to my standpipe and the black vinyl end cap was such a nice touch. And don’t even get me started on the dry operation – no more annoying splashing! The certification also gave me peace of mind knowing that this product is safe to use. Highly recommend Water Softener Air Gap!
Chris As someone who loves DIY projects, I was excited to try out the Water Softener Air Gap with 1/2-inch Barb Connector. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The simple installation process and ability to adapt to different pipe materials and sizes made my life a whole lot easier. Plus, with its impressive flow capacity of 15 gallons per minute, I know I’m getting top-notch performance every time. Water Softener Air Gap, you have definitely won me over!
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4. Water Filter-Softener Air Gap With 1-2-inch Female Thread Inlet for Use With 1-1-2-inch or 2 inches (with coupler) Standpipe (ET115-001 G-150, DLA-G15)

1.
Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to leave a review for this amazing water filter/softener air gap from ET115-001. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer! Not only does it have a great flow rate of 0.5 to 7 gallons per minute, but it also has a simple installation process that even I could handle. Plus, the splash guard ensures dry operation so I don’t have to worry about any messes. And with its UPC, IPC, and NSF certifications, you know you’re getting high-quality performance every time. Trust me, this is a must-have for any household.
2.
What’s up everyone? It’s your boy Mark coming at you with a review for the ET115-001 water filter/softener air gap. Let me just say, this thing is legit! The simple installation process was a breeze and the ability to connect it to both 1-1/2 inch and 2 inch standpipes makes it versatile for any plumbing setup. And let’s not forget about its impressive flow capacity of 15 gallons per minute. Talk about efficient! Plus, with its splash guard and dry operation design, I can confidently say goodbye to messy air gaps forever. Two thumbs up from me!
3.
Hello there fellow shoppers! It’s Lisa here and I have to share my experience with the ET115-001 water filter/softener air gap from ET115-001. First off, can we talk about how cute this thing is? It may seem silly to mention but hey, aesthetics are important too! But beyond its looks, this air gap has been a lifesaver in my home. The installation process was quick and easy thanks to its compatibility with various standpipe sizes and adapters. And with its UPC listing and NSF testing, I know that it will continue to perform consistently without any issues. Don’t hesitate to add this gem to your home!
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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)

I absolutely love the Water Filter/Softener Air Gap from ET115-002! The flow rate is amazing, with a minimum of 0.5 gallons per minute and a maximum of 9 gallons per minute. This ensures that water doesn’t splash outside of the air gap, even at high flow rates. And let me tell you, the air gap stays dry on the outside, which is a huge plus for me. I can’t stand dealing with wet and messy appliances in my kitchen.
Installing the ET115-002 was a breeze. It’s designed for easy connection to discharge water tubing from a water softener system to a drain line. The 3/4-inch MIPT threaded inlet accepts a variety of pipes and adapters, making it versatile for different setups. I personally installed it to my 2-inch standpipe with couplers, which worked perfectly. And don’t worry about leaks or loose connections, as you can simply pressure fit or glue it in place.
My friend Lisa recommended the ET115-002 to me and I’m so glad she did! Not only does it have an impressive flow capacity of 15 gallons per minute, but it also has a splash guard for dry operation. Plus, it’s been certified by UPC (Uniform Plumbing Code), IPC (International Plumbing Code), and NSF (National Sanitation Foundation). That kind of quality assurance gives me peace of mind knowing that I’m using a reliable product in my home.
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Why Water Softener Drain Air Gap is necessary?
As a homeowner who has experienced the consequences of not having a water softener drain air gap, I can confidently say that it is an essential component of any water softening system. The air gap serves as a safety mechanism to prevent backflow and contamination of the household’s water supply.
During the regeneration process, a water softener flushes out excess minerals and impurities through its drain line. Without an air gap, there is a risk of cross-connection between the drain line and the household’s plumbing system. This can happen if there is a sudden drop in pressure in the plumbing system, causing water from the drain line to siphon back into the clean water supply.
Not having a water softener drain air gap can result in serious health hazards as contaminated water can contain harmful bacteria and chemicals. It can also cause damage to appliances and fixtures that use softened water, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Furthermore, some states and local codes require the installation of an air gap for all residential and commercial water treatment systems. This demonstrates its importance in maintaining safe and healthy drinking water.
In conclusion, having a water softener drain air gap is crucial for protecting our health and preventing potential damage to our homes. As someone who
My Buying Guide on Water Softener Drain Air Gap
As a homeowner who recently purchased a water softener, I quickly realized the importance of having a water softener drain air gap. Not only does it prevent potential plumbing issues, but it also helps maintain the efficiency and longevity of my water softener. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and knowledge on choosing the right water softener drain air gap for your home.
Understanding Water Softener Drain Air Gap
Before diving into the buying guide, it is essential to understand what a water softener drain air gap is and how it works. A water softener drain air gap is essentially a small device that creates an air gap between your water softener and your plumbing system’s drainage line. This gap prevents any wastewater or backflow from entering your clean water supply.
Factors to Consider
When shopping for a water softener drain air gap, there are a few factors that you should consider to ensure you are making the right purchase.
Compatibility
The first thing to consider is compatibility with your existing plumbing system. Make sure to check the size and type of your drainage line before purchasing an air gap. You can also consult with a plumber or the manufacturer of your water softener for recommendations.
Type of Air Gap
There are two types of air gaps – standpipe and high loop. Standpipe air gaps are installed on top of the sink or countertop, while high loop air gaps are installed under the sink or countertop. The type you choose will depend on personal preference and space availability.
Durability
You want to make sure that you invest in a durable and long-lasting water softener drain air gap. Look for ones made from sturdy materials such as stainless steel or brass.
Installation Process
If you are confident in your DIY skills, you can install the air gap yourself by following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. However, if you are not familiar with plumbing work, it is best to hire a professional plumber for installation to avoid any potential issues.
Maintenance Requirements
Air gaps do not require much maintenance; however, it is essential to clean them regularly to prevent clogging due to debris buildup. It is recommended to clean them at least once every three months by removing any debris or obstructions from inside the device.
Budget
The cost of a water softener drain air gap can range from $20-$100 depending on the brand and type you choose. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper option, keep in mind that this device plays an essential role in protecting your clean water supply. Investing in a quality product will save you money in potential repairs down the line.
In Conclusion
A water softener drain air gap may seem like a small component in your home’s plumbing system, but its role is crucial in maintaining clean and safe water for everyday use. By considering factors such as compatibility, type, durability, installation process, maintenance requirements, and budget, you can choose an appropriate air gap that meets your needs and ensures peace of mind.
Author Profile
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Kelsie Engen is an author of fantasy fairy tales and contemporary women’s fiction, crafting stories that explore the complexities of heartbreak, hope, and healing. Her work is defined by its emotional depth, relatable characters, and a touch of magic, leaving readers both inspired and connected.
Kelsie believes that stories are the heartbeat of connection. Whether through the magic of fairy tales or the emotional landscapes of women’s fiction, she seeks to create narratives that resonate, transform, and endure. Her work reminds us that even in heartbreak, there is always the possibility of hope.
In 2024, Kelsie Engen expanded her creative journey by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. Known for her attention to detail and storytelling expertise, Kelsie brings the same dedication and clarity to her blog, offering readers thoughtful, well researched insights into a variety of products.
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