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What is required to be utilized in the waste of a clothes washer waste?

  1. Trap

  2. Air break

  3. Air gap

  4. Drainage vent

The correct answer is: Air gap

In addressing the waste disposal for a clothes washer, the requirement of an air gap is essential for preventing potential backflow and contamination of the potable water supply. An air gap serves as a physical separation between the end of the drainage pipe from the washer and the point where wastewater exits the home, ensuring that there is no possibility of backflow into clean water systems. This is particularly important in laundry areas where used water may contain detergents or other contaminants. While traps, air breaks, and drainage vents are all important components in plumbing systems, the key to ensuring safety and compliance in this context is the air gap. A trap, for example, is primarily used to contain water in the system to prevent sewer gases from entering the living space, but it does not provide the backflow prevention necessary in this situation. An air break can also help to prevent backflow but is not as reliable as an air gap. A drainage vent is crucial for maintaining proper air pressure in the drainage system but does not address backflow issues directly. Thus, utilizing an air gap in the waste line of a clothes washer is a required practice to protect public health and maintain plumbing system integrity.