Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Last Updated: Feb 9, 2023
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If your RO faucet has an air gap, there’s a high chance that it’ll let out some weird noises.
These noises can be disturbing, but don’t worry; this guide explains what to do about reverse osmosis air gap faucet noises, whether gurgling or hissing.
Key Takeaways
First, be sure what type of noise your RO air gap faucet is making. Then, you can pick the tips that apply below.
If you hear loud gurgling noises, here’s what to do.
Gurgling noises could be because of air bubbles within the system. Tilting it about 45° can help let out the air bubbles. While tilting, let it run water for about a minute. Then, turn it off for about 30 seconds and rerun the water. When you do this a couple of times, you’ll let out all the air.
If you have an oversized reverse osmosis membrane, you must reduce the size to stop gurgling noises coming from your air gap faucet. Adjust the size of your RO membrane to suit the other system components.
Siphoning occurs in RO faucets when the drain tube sags between the air gap and the drain pipe. To fix, reduce the length of said drain tube so that water can flow through without going through a deep bend.
If you hear hissing noises from your RO air gap faucet, here’s what to do.
Check for debris inside your drain line and get rid of them. Deposits can obstruct your drain pipe and cause hissing sounds.
Even a tiny crack in your faucet tubing can cause hissing. Check for cracks or splits on the tubing and fix it if you find any.
Your RO system may leak at some point, drawing in air through the air gap and causing hissing noises. Fix the leak!
Install a flow reducer in your RO unit to control the water pressure. If the pressure is too high, the air gap will draw in a large amount of air and cause hissing noises.
In some cases, noises are normal in RO air gap faucets. The air gap will draw in some air whenever the RO system recharges which causes normal hissing sounds.
If you’re using your RO system for the first time, it is also normal to hear noise from the air gap faucet as it releases air from within the system.
If you have any questions about reverse osmosis air gap noise please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
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The sink garbage disposal drain gurgles for a while and is pretty loud after using the osmosis system. If i cover the air hole on the faucet i cant hear it. Why is this?
ReplyThe RO system produces more water after you’ve used it. The gurgling stops because the air gap cannot draw air if you cover it.
Reply