Secure Strainer from Underneath — Mount the Air Gap Body
Part of project
How to Install a Dishwasher Air Gap on a Countertop · Step 3 of 6
In this video
Working from underneath the sink, first slide the rubber gasket up over the threaded strainer body until it sits flush against the bottom surface of the sink. Follow this with the metal friction washer. Finally, take the pre-assembled mounting nut with its screws and thread it onto the strainer body. Hand-tighten it initially. Then, use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the three screws evenly, alternating between them to ensure uniform pressure, until the entire assembly is snug and secure.
Goal: Attach and tighten the undersink components
- Tighten the screws in an alternating, star-like pattern to ensure the drain is pulled down evenly. Do not fully tighten one screw before moving to the next.
Used in this video
- Phillips Screwdriver (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Manual, Screwdriver Type: Phillips head) — Tightening the three mounting screws on the mounting nut.
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FAQs
Why is an air gap necessary, and is it always required for a dishwasher?
An air gap prevents contaminated drain water from siphoning back into your clean dishwasher, protecting your dishes and health. While not universally required, many local plumbing codes mandate them, so always check your local regulations before installation.
What are the main safety precautions I should take when drilling the hole in my countertop?
Always wear eye protection and gloves. Securely brace the countertop from below if possible, and use the correct hole cutter (like the Malco HC1S) at a slow speed to prevent chipping or cracking. Start with a pilot hole for accuracy and control.
My new air gap is leaking after installation. What should I check first?
The most common leaks occur due to loose hose clamps (ensure they are tightened properly, like the Everbilt 5/16 - 5/8 in. clamps), improperly seated hoses, or damaged gaskets on the air gap body. Double-check all connections and the integrity of any rubber seals.
Is the 4-hour estimated time realistic for a beginner, and what makes it take that long?
Yes, 4 hours is realistic for a beginner. This accounts for thorough preparation, careful drilling (especially for a first-timer), routing hoses, making secure connections, and meticulous testing for leaks, which can take time to get right.
Secure Strainer from Underneath — Mount the Air Gap Body
Part of project
How to Install a Dishwasher Air Gap on a Countertop · Step 3 of 6
In this video
Working from underneath the sink, first slide the rubber gasket up over the threaded strainer body until it sits flush against the bottom surface of the sink. Follow this with the metal friction washer. Finally, take the pre-assembled mounting nut with its screws and thread it onto the strainer body. Hand-tighten it initially. Then, use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the three screws evenly, alternating between them to ensure uniform pressure, until the entire assembly is snug and secure.
Goal: Attach and tighten the undersink components
- Tighten the screws in an alternating, star-like pattern to ensure the drain is pulled down evenly. Do not fully tighten one screw before moving to the next.
Used in this video
- Phillips Screwdriver (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Manual, Screwdriver Type: Phillips head) — Tightening the three mounting screws on the mounting nut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is an air gap necessary, and is it always required for a dishwasher?
An air gap prevents contaminated drain water from siphoning back into your clean dishwasher, protecting your dishes and health. While not universally required, many local plumbing codes mandate them, so always check your local regulations before installation.
What are the main safety precautions I should take when drilling the hole in my countertop?
Always wear eye protection and gloves. Securely brace the countertop from below if possible, and use the correct hole cutter (like the Malco HC1S) at a slow speed to prevent chipping or cracking. Start with a pilot hole for accuracy and control.
My new air gap is leaking after installation. What should I check first?
The most common leaks occur due to loose hose clamps (ensure they are tightened properly, like the Everbilt 5/16 - 5/8 in. clamps), improperly seated hoses, or damaged gaskets on the air gap body. Double-check all connections and the integrity of any rubber seals.
Is the 4-hour estimated time realistic for a beginner, and what makes it take that long?
Yes, 4 hours is realistic for a beginner. This accounts for thorough preparation, careful drilling (especially for a first-timer), routing hoses, making secure connections, and meticulous testing for leaks, which can take time to get right.