March 23, 2010
What Is A Kitchen Sink Air Gap ?
Long avoiding the clogs or blockages of kitchen sink could take a toll on the normal proceedings of the plumbing setup. The water drained into the sink pipe doesn’t find any opening to exit. Consequently, the contaminated water along with said waste reverses its flow and comes back into the dishwasher. Such a scenario rings the alarm for the homeowners and they begin to look for a quick solution to the problem.
The reliability of the air gaps is responsible for their increased preference as a regular plumbing segment. Nowadays, most kitchen sinks are equipped with such air gaps to fight against the clogs and blockages.
To locate a hole for the installation of air gap, examine the rear shelf portion of the sink. The presence of a small-sized hole confirms the availability of the air gap opening. Sometimes your sink unit may not possess such a precut hole for the air gap installation. In such a case, prepare yourself for cutting operation to render a hole manually. Use a regular drill machine to bore a hole on the sink rear. Use a hole saw to provide finish to the opening.
Purchase a standard-sized air gap unit from a local home improvement store. Now, place the air gap onto the sink-hole such that it occupies the hole completely. Tighten the fixture using the associated nuts and bolts. Avail the services of a screwdriver and a pair of pliers to tighten the screws on the underside of the sink.
Cover the distance between the air gap and the dishwasher with the help of a hose pipe. Make sure that both the ends of the hoses pipe are secured tightly to the fixtures using the hose clamps.
A length of hose would also run between the larger nipple and the inlet nipple. Again, use the hose clamps to secure both the ends of the air gap.
Finish off the task by placing air gap cap on the final setting. Remove the cap to access the air gap unit when any irregularity is faced.
Keep the guidance of an expert at your disposal. He would come up with valuable suggestions during the complex phases of the project.
For many years Michael Simmons has been researching and writing about all aspects of plumbing. His articles cover a wide range of subjects and are valued by plumbers seeking such information. If you are looking for information on the pilot light on water heater and unclogging a toilet, visit eLocalPlumbers.com.
Filed under Work From Home by Scott Rodgers