S R wrote:

Is there a safe way to hook up the drain from a water softener into a houses
main PVC drain in the basement? The installation manual directs that an air
gap be maintained so that the water softener will not be able to draw from
the drain source. The problem I have is that the main PVC drain is not
accessible to be able to move it around, since it is mostly concealed behind
finished basement walls. Only about three feet is exposed where it exits
the basement. Is there a sort of fitting that can be installed into the
main PVC drain that does not require the drain to be moved (like a section
of it can be cut out, then the new fitting installed)?

Any suggestions appreciated.

Location : Pennsylvania
3" dia. pvc

Steve

The problems associated with what you are trying to do are
far, far more serious than how to cut into the pipe.

The reason the mfr is so explicit is that there is the
*real* potential for contaminating your drinking water
with sewage.

Yes, the pipe can be cut and then rubber couplings (Fernco) used
to connect a fitting in between. But then this connection
must have a P-trap and further a venting arrangement.
Then an air gap between the trap and waste connection from
softener.

Is there a laundry tub somewhere that could receive the waste?
The discharge could be above the tub rim to provide an air gap.
Even if you have to install a small sump pump to handle it,
this would be better than a jury-rigged hookup to the sewer.
Or a floor drain?

Jim