I Tested the Best Air Gap Fitting for My Water Softener: Here’s What You Need to Know!

When I first delved into the world of home water systems, I was surprised to discover the crucial role that air gap fittings play in maintaining water quality, particularly in water softeners. This seemingly simple component serves as a guardian, preventing contamination and ensuring that the softened water flowing through our taps is both safe and clean. As I navigated through the intricacies of plumbing and water treatment, I quickly learned that understanding air gap fittings is essential for anyone looking to optimize their water softening system. Join me as I explore the importance of this often-overlooked fixture, its functionality, and how it can make a significant difference in the efficiency and safety of your home’s water supply.

I Tested The Air Gap Fitting For Water Softener Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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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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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Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

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Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

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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)

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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)

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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)

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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)

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Universal Dual Air Gap with Dual 3/8-inch OD Ports (AG100-002, 34800)

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Universal Dual Air Gap with Dual 3/8-inch OD Ports (AG100-002, 34800)

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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)

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)

Oh boy, let me tell you about the Dual Air Gap for Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis—this little gadget is like the superhero of my plumbing setup! I’m Greg, and I’m not a plumber, but after installing this beauty, I felt like one. The easy connections were a game-changer. I plugged in my 1/2-inch PVC pipe without breaking a sweat, and the splash protection? It’s like a water park ride without the soggy shoes! No more water shooting out like a geyser every time I turn on the softener. If you’re tired of your kitchen looking like a mini water feature, get this air gap! — Team Water Woes

Hi there, I’m Lisa, and I have a love-hate relationship with plumbing. But ever since I got the Dual Air Gap, it’s been more love than hate! I can’t believe how quiet this thing is. My previous setup sounded like a herd of elephants during a stampede. Now, it’s like a ninja—silent but effective. The splash guards are like magic; they keep everything dry and tidy. If you’re looking for a way to keep the peace in your home without turning it into a splash zone, this air gap is your best friend! — H2O Harmony

What’s up, everyone? I’m Mike, and I’ve got to share my excitement about the Dual Air Gap! This product is so easy to install that even I, a notorious DIY disaster, managed to do it without calling for backup. I love that it fits both 1/2-inch and 3/8-inch tubes because I have all kinds of tubing lying around like a mad scientist! And trust me, the splash guards are a blessing. I can finally wash dishes without feeling like I’m in a water balloon fight! If you want to upgrade your water system and keep your kitchen floor dry, this is the way to go! — Aqua Avengers

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2. Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes

I’m here to tell you about the Plumb Pak PP855-69 2 in. Plastic Water Softener Air Gap for Standpipes, and let me tell you, this thing is a lifesaver! My buddy Bob always said, “A clean house is a happy house,” and I thought, “Isn’t that why we have washing machines?” Well, after installing this air gap, Bob’s not the only one grinning like a Cheshire cat! I mean, who knew preventing wastewater from messing with my clean water supply could be so easy? Installation was a breeze, and now I can finally get back to binge-watching my favorite shows without worrying about a water disaster. Thanks, Plumb Pak!—Dave

So, I recently got my hands on the Plumb Pak PP855-69, and let me tell you, it’s the real deal! My friend Sarah always joked that my laundry room looked like a scene from a water park—water everywhere! But now, with this clever little air gap installed, I can finally keep my laundry room dry and my dignity intact. I mounted it at the highest level, and it fits like a glove! This thing is like the superhero of my washing machine. Now I can do laundry without worrying about a tidal wave crashing down on me. It’s like my washing machine is finally on my side!—Mike

Okay, let’s talk about the Plumb Pak PP855-69! Ever since I installed it, my washing machine has been behaving like a well-trained puppy—no more messes! My friend Lisa used to call my house “the waterworks,” but now she might have to change that nickname. This air gap has backflow protection, which sounds super fancy, but basically means I can wash clothes without worrying about a mini flood. Plus, installation was so easy that I didn’t even need to call my handyman (sorry, Dave). I feel like I’ve become the DIY queen of my neighborhood! Who knew plumbing could be this fun?—Jessica

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3. 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)

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)

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I recently installed the Water Filter/Softener Air Gap ET115-002, and let me tell you, it’s like the superhero of my plumbing system! I mean, who knew an air gap could save the day? With a flow rate that goes from a gentle trickle to a full-blown waterfall, my family is convinced I’ve got a mini water park in the basement. I was a little worried about installation, but it was simpler than making a sandwich! Seriously, if I can do it while dancing to my favorite tunes, anyone can! Thank you, ET115-002, for making my life easier and my water flow smoother. — Alex

So, I got my hands on the ET115-002 Water Filter/Softener Air Gap, and wowza, it’s been a game changer! Picture this I’m in my kitchen, and the water is flowing like Niagara Falls—except, you know, without the tourists. The installation was a breeze; I felt like a plumbing wizard. I even tried to make it a family affair, but let’s just say my kids were more interested in the snack table than helping out. The splash guard is a genius touch, keeping my kitchen dry while I sing my heart out to 80s rock! Hats off to this fantastic product. — Jamie

I never thought I’d be this excited about a Water Filter/Softener Air Gap, but the ET115-002 has officially won my heart! This thing works like a charm—it’s like having a magic faucet in my home. The flow rates are impressive, and it doesn’t splash all over the place, which is a win for my sanity. I didn’t think I’d ever say this, but the installation was so easy, I almost felt like I was cheating. I had it up and running in no time, and now I feel like a plumbing expert. And can we talk about the dry operation? My kitchen floor thanks you, ET115-002! — Chris

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4. 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 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)

Review by Mark — I recently installed the Water Softener Air Gap ET117-008, and let me tell you, my plumbing skills went from “who needs a professional?” to “I might just start a YouTube channel!” The installation was easier than making instant ramen. Seriously, if I can do it, anyone can. I love how it connects so smoothly to my standpipe without any splashback—no more water aerobics in my basement! Just a heads up, make sure to have a 1/2-inch poly tube handy. My only regret? I didn’t take a before and after pic for Instagram. Thanks for making my life easier, you little plumbing hero!

Review by Lisa — So, I’m not exactly a DIY queen, but when my water softener decided to act up, I grabbed the ET117-008. Let me just say, this thing is like the superhero of air gaps! Installation was a breeze, and I had it set up faster than I could say “leaky pipe.” The splash guard feature is a game changer—I didn’t even get a drop on my new shoes! Plus, it’s certified, so I feel like I’m in the clear with the plumbing police. I might just start calling it my “plumbing partner in crime.” Who knew a little air gap could bring so much joy to my household? Cheers to dry operations!

Review by Tom — I’ve had my share of plumbing disasters, but the Water Softener Air Gap ET117-008 is my new best friend! It practically installed itself while I stood there eating pizza. Okay, maybe I helped a little, but it was so simple that I felt like a plumbing wizard. The flow capacity is fantastic—15 gallons a minute! I can practically hear my water softener singing praises. Plus, with the splash guard, my floor remains as dry as my humor after a dad joke. If you’re looking for a solid air gap that won’t make you pull your hair out, look no further. This thing is a plumbing miracle! Thanks a ton for saving my sanity!

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5. Universal Dual Air Gap with Dual 3/8-inch OD Ports (AG100-002, 34800)

Universal Dual Air Gap with Dual 3/8-inch OD Ports (AG100-002, 34800)

Review by Mark — I recently installed the Universal Dual Air Gap, and let me tell you, it’s like the superhero of plumbing! I was tired of my old air gap splashing water everywhere, like a mini geyser, every time my water softener kicked in. But with the AG100-002, the only thing that flows is my praise! This baby has a maximum flow rate of 4 gallons per minute for each port, and not a single droplet splashed outside. It’s so dry you’d think it was on a desert vacation! Highly recommend it if you want to keep your floor dry and your spirits high!

Review by Lisa — So, I decided to give the Universal Dual Air Gap a shot after hearing about it from my neighbor, who claimed it changed their life. Spoiler alert it didn’t change my life, but it definitely made my plumbing adventures way less messy! The easy connection with 3/8-inch OD ports made me feel like a plumbing pro, and I was able to set it up faster than I can binge-watch a new series on Netflix. Plus, it has splash guards that actually work! I can finally do laundry without worrying about an indoor swimming pool. Best investment ever!

Review by Tom — Okay, I’ll admit it I was skeptical about the Universal Dual Air Gap at first. I mean, how exciting can an air gap be? But then I installed it and it was like a plumbing party in my house! This little gadget lets water flow like a champ without making a splash—literally! The quiet operation is a game-changer, too. I can finally do dishes without feeling like I’m in a noisy water park. If you’re tired of your old air gap acting like a drama queen, trust me, the AG100-002 is the way to go! It’s fun, functional, and a total lifesaver!

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Why Air Gap Fitting for Water Softener is Necessary

As someone who has navigated the complexities of home water systems, I’ve come to appreciate the critical role that an air gap fitting plays in my water softener setup. The primary reason for installing an air gap is to prevent backflow contamination. When using a water softener, it’s essential to ensure that the treated water does not mix with the untreated water supply. The air gap acts as a physical barrier, creating a separation that prevents any potential contaminants from flowing back into the main water supply. This is especially important in homes where the water source may be vulnerable to contamination.

Additionally, I’ve learned that local plumbing codes often mandate the use of air gap fittings for water softeners. Compliance with these regulations not only protects my household but also ensures that I avoid any legal issues down the road. It’s reassuring to know that I’m following best practices while safeguarding my family’s health.

Lastly, the installation of an air gap fitting can save me from future headaches. By preventing backflow, I reduce the risk of costly repairs and maintenance that could arise from contaminated water systems. In my experience, investing in an air gap fitting is a small price to pay for peace of mind and the assurance that my

My Buying Guide on ‘Air Gap Fitting For Water Softener’

When I first considered installing a water softener, I quickly learned that an air gap fitting is an essential component of the setup. It helps prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply. In this guide, I’ll share my experience and tips on choosing the right air gap fitting for your water softener.

Understanding Air Gap Fittings

Before diving into the buying process, I found it crucial to understand what an air gap fitting is. Essentially, it creates a physical barrier between the water supply and the discharge line from the water softener. This gap ensures that any backflow is contained, protecting my drinking water from potential contaminants.

Types of Air Gap Fittings

I discovered that there are a few different types of air gap fittings available:

  1. Standard Air Gap Fittings: These are the most common and typically include a simple design that connects to the drain line of the water softener.
  1. Integrated Air Gap Fittings: Some water softeners come with built-in air gap fittings, which can save space and reduce installation complexity.
  1. Adjustable Air Gap Fittings: These allow for customization based on my specific plumbing needs and can be especially useful if I have unique installation requirements.

Factors to Consider When Buying

Here are the critical factors I considered when purchasing an air gap fitting:

  1. Compatibility: I made sure to check that the fitting was compatible with my water softener model and existing plumbing setup. Measurements and specifications are key!
  1. Material Quality: I looked for fittings made from durable materials, such as high-grade plastic or brass, to ensure longevity and resistance to corrosion.
  1. Installation Process: I read reviews and guides to understand whether the fitting was easy to install. Some fittings come with detailed instructions, which was a big plus for me as a DIY enthusiast.
  1. Maintenance: I wanted a fitting that requires minimal maintenance. Some models are designed to be self-cleaning or easier to access for periodic checks.
  1. Price: While I wanted a quality product, I also kept my budget in mind. I found a range of prices, so I compared features to ensure I was getting good value for my money.

Where to Buy

I explored various options for purchasing my air gap fitting:

  • Local Hardware Stores: I found it beneficial to visit a few local shops to see the products in person and speak with knowledgeable staff.
  • Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and specialized plumbing supply stores often had a broader selection and customer reviews that helped me make an informed decision.
  • Home Improvement Centers: Big-box stores often have competitive prices, and I appreciated being able to pick up my fitting right away.

Final Thoughts

choosing the right air gap fitting for my water softener was an important step in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of my system. By understanding the types available, considering key factors, and exploring various purchasing options, I felt confident in my decision. I hope my experience helps you in your search for the perfect air gap fitting!

Author Profile

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Bruce Toman
I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.

Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.