What Is an Air Gap?

An air gap is a critical plumbing safety feature that creates a physical separation between the wastewater outlet and the clean water system. In dialysis settings, it prevents contaminated water from backflowing into the dialysis machine, safeguarding patients from potential infections. Air gaps are essential for meeting stringent health and safety standards, including CDC and CMS guidelines.

Air gaps in drains are mandatory for all water treatment equipment, whether it is in a dialysis clinic, hospital, or a patient’s home. During the installation of an air gap, it is important to comply with local plumbing codes. According to IAPMO standards, a minimum of a 1” air gap or twice the diameter of the waste line, whichever is greater, is required.

Understanding Dialysis

Dialysis is a life-saving medical treatment that removes waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys can no longer perform these functions. Introduced in the 1940s and widely adopted by the 1970s, dialysis can be administered in hospitals, specialized dialysis centers, or even in the comfort of a patient’s home.

What is Hemodialysis?

Hemodialysis filters waste and excess fluid from your blood using a machine. It's typically done three times a week at a clinic.

What is Home Hemodialysis?

Home Hemodialysis is hemodialysis done at home. It is done more frequently and has proven benefits and quality of life.

Why Dialysis Matters?

Dialysis is crucial for those with kidney failure. It helps remove toxins and maintain a balance of minerals.

The Role of an Air Gap in Dialysis

Dialysis machines act as artificial kidneys, filtering blood to remove waste and excess fluids. This process requires ultra-pure water, which is achieved through advanced filtration and reverse osmosis systems. To maintain water purity and prevent cross-contamination:

They prevent back-siphoning of wastewater, which could otherwise compromise the safety of the dialysis process. Compliance with local plumbing codes is essential.

Air gaps are installed at the point where the dialysis machine drains into the plumbing system.


Whether in a hospital, clinic, or home setting, air gaps are a mandatory component of safe dialysis water treatment systems.

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