This article examines dishwasher air gap water leaks, addressing why water is coming out.
You will learn the causes of leakage, how to fix the problem, and ways to prevent future occurrences. Until then, let’s review dishwasher air gaps and how they work.
Water Coming Out of Dishwasher Air Gap
Do you have a dishwasher in your home? Of course, you know it offers several benefits over handwashing.
It saves time and water, keeps sinks clear to preserve your family’s health, and sanitizes your dishes. If you appreciate all these functions, maintaining your dishwasher should be your top priority.
The dishwasher is designed to prevent drain water or sewage backup from flowing into the system. If you notice water coming from the air gap, something is wrong with your dishwasher.
To avoid costly damage, it is essential to address the issue immediately.
Before we discuss dishwasher air gap leaking with or without a clog, let’s review how it functions.
Understanding Dishwasher Air Gap and How it Works
If you open your dishwasher, you’ll see a cylinder fitting connecting the kitchen sink and drain.
That fitting is called an air gap, and it is installed through the sink countertop. It is designed to prevent dirty water from flowing into and out of the dishwasher during a wash cycle.
A dishwasher works by separating two hose branches with an unpressurized air gap. This helps prevent cross-contamination between the dishwasher and drain.
One of the two branches of the air gap fitting is connected to the appliance, and the second connects and descends to the garbage disposal.
What Makes Water Come Out of the Dishwasher Air Gap?
The dishwasher air gap is not designed to leak water.
If this happens, it’s an indication of an urgent problem. Several factors can cause water to leak from your dishwasher’s air gap, including buildup and problematic valves.
-
Significant Buildup
One significant cause of water coming out of the dishwasher air gap is a clog.
It can be caused by the accumulation of dirt or debris in the connection line. To address this concern, you’ll need to remove the clog. There are several ways to clear your dishwasher’s air gap of clogs.
The first method involves removing the metal casing from the air gap and the plastic top. Once you gain access to the system, use tweezers to remove the material causing the blockage.
You can also use a plunger to dislodge the clog and free your dishwasher. If the clog is not visible, you can estimate its significance by placing a roll of paper towels over the air gap.
After that, blow hard through the end of the tube.
If there are greasy particles, pour hot water down the air gap. It should clear any clog.
However, if it persists, try snaking it out, just like other plumbing features. You can use a bottle brush or a cable length and push it through the larger hole at the bottom of the air gap.
Work the cable or brush back and forth to clean it up.
Avoid exerting too much pressure, as it can puncture the tube or lead to serious problems. If you can see the end of the tool through the drain in the sink or garbage disposal, it means you’ve dislodged the clog.
Finally, you can clean a significant buildup using a vacuum cleaner. Get a wet or dry vacuum and attach the hose end to the air gap outlet. Next, fill the sink or disposal area with hot water and turn on the shop vac.
Allow the water to run through for about 30-40 seconds. The suction should dislodge the clog.
-
Problematic Valves
Another reason water comes out of the dishwasher’s air gap is a faulty valve.
Valves are typically designed to safeguard dishwashers. If the valve gets stuck due to a large amount of food and debris, it will leak water.
-
Hose Problems
If you notice water coming out of the air gap, the problem isn’t from the dishwasher.
The hose could be the culprit. In most cases, the hose bends and slightly restricts the flow of water into the disposal. If left unattended, the hose connected to the disposal will collapse. In that case, you may need to change the entire hose.
The hose linking the dishwasher to the air gap may not be problematic. It may become clogged, preventing the dishwasher from draining quickly. Water can only come out from the air gap when it’s not draining quickly.
To address the problem, disconnect the hose coming from the air gap to the disposal. Next, place a bucket under the air gap and inspect for any leakage. If it continues to leak, you’ll have to replace the system.
If not, there may be a restriction after the air gap somewhere.
-
Fixes for New Disposal
You just bought a new dishwasher, and the water is coming out? The problem could be caused by the small insert where the hose connects to the garbage disposal. Disconnect the hose and hold a screwdriver against the insert to fix it.
Tap the end of the screwdriver with a hammer until the insert is pushed into the disposal tank. Your dishwasher should begin to work perfectly.
Addressing Dishwasher Air Gap Leaks
When addressing such a problem, you’ll need to consider several factors.
To begin with, ensure that the hose is free of kinks and not too long. Also, ensure that you have enough hose to reach the air gap inlet and enough to get to the drain or garbage disposal.
Furthermore, ensure the final run of the hose to the drain is free from any sagging traps. Otherwise, debris can accumulate and cause blockage.
Before starting your repairs, turn off the power supply. Use a screwdriver and a hammer to punch out the dishwasher air gap. Use a pair of long-nose pliers to fish out the plastic plug from the disposal.
Additionally, avoid using standard corrugated plastic hoses, as they are more prone to damage than higher-quality rubber hoses.
Some standard corrugated plastic hoses have ridges that accumulate debris, leading to significant buildup over time.
Cleaning a Dishwasher Air Gap
It’s essential you know how to clean this system.
A clog is among the key reasons water comes from the dishwasher’s air gap. That said, an air gap is primarily designed to allow air to pass through the drainage system, so constantly cleaning the unit may not be necessary.
However, for the few times you’ll need to do so, first remove the air gap cover and rinse the cap thoroughly. This will ensure the air gap isn’t clogged in a short while.
Having done that, check to ensure the air gap is securely in place.
If you notice water coming out from your dishwasher’s air gap, it may be a sign that it is clogged and needs to be cleaned. If the clog is not resolved, it may cause backups and issues with your dishwasher.
Consider calling a professional plumber to help resolve the issue.