Equipment discharging non-potable water to the drainage system should discharge how?

Discharging non-potable water into a drainage system requires specific measures to prevent contamination of the potable water supply. The correct approach is to use an indirect discharge method, specifically through an air break or air gap. This method ensures that there is a physical separation between the non-potable water and the drainage system, thereby preventing any potential backflow or cross-contamination.

An air break occurs when the discharge pipe ends above the level of the wastewater in the receiving fixture, while an air gap maintains an open space as a barrier. Both methods effectively safeguard against the risk of contaminants from the non-potable water entering the clean water supply. This is particularly important given that non-potable water can carry pollutants that could severely compromise water quality.

Other methods, such as discharging directly into the sewer or using a check valve or backflow preventer, do not provide the same level of protection. They may allow for potential backflow situations, where contaminated water could flow back into the potable supply if a drop in pressure occurs. Thus, utilizing an air break or air gap is the best practice for ensuring public health and compliance with plumbing codes.