This is my experience with DW's and air gaps.

I've removed many DW's and installed some over the years. (remodels)

If the dishwasher drain hose is running upwards and over the top of the kitchen cabinet directly below the counter top, then the hose is connected to the disposer. I would consider that as acceptable.

If the drain hose is passing through the cabinet at the lower section of the cabinet and connected directly to the disposer, it probably does not have a high loop or an air gap as recommended.

And if they do actually have the air gap device on top of the sink, it is always turned backwards cause the wife doesn't want to look at that dumb opening on the front of it anyway. Am i wrong? How many of you hear that?

rick

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Rick Hurst_Home Works Inspection Co_Rockwall TX
In the words of Mike Tyson.... "Everyone has a plan until they get hit inda mouf"