How must an automatic clothes washer discharge its wastewater?

An automatic clothes washer must discharge its wastewater through an air gap or an air break to prevent backflow of contaminated water into the clean supply. An air gap provides a physical separation between the discharge point of the washer and the plumbing system, ensuring that wastewater cannot siphon back into the washer or the potable water supply. This is crucial for maintaining health and safety standards, as it protects against potential contamination from soapy or dirty water.

In many installations, an air gap is created by elevating the discharge hose above the level of the standpipe or drain, preventing any backflow due to pressure changes or blockages in the plumbing system. An air break is similar but typically involves a shorter separation at the discharge connection.

While options like draining through a sink or a sewer line may seem practical, they do not inherently provide the same level of protection against cross-contamination. A direct hose connection without an air gap or air break would also be inadequate for safe wastewater management. Thus, following proper discharge methods with air gaps or air breaks aligns with building codes and health safety regulations.