Water softener dischage line

[uuu1234]

Hi all,

I'm trying to install a water softener in my garage, which apparently is pre plumbed for supply line, but not drain line. (please see pics)

http://uuu1234.fileave.com/plumbing/P6022972_1.jpg

http://uuu1234.fileave.com/plumbing/P6022974_1.jpg

http://uuu1234.fileave.com/plumbing/P6022976_1.jpg

The fact that a toilet and a sink right above the water heater at second floor and a clean out on the opposite wall outside tell me there is a drain pipe in the wall. Unfortunatelly look like the pipe is right behind my water heater.

So here is my first question: Without taking out the water heater and reinstall it back, can I open up drywall and tap water softener discharge into existing drain pipe OVER WATER HEATER? It will be 6-7 ft over the floor and 3 feet over water softener itself. Since water softener drain with pressure, I believe the height shouldn't be a problem, but I don't know if it break any plumbing code.

My second question: From what I searched so far, I know I will need a p trap to tap into the line and an air gap for health concern. Do I need to worry about overflow since the dirty water can come from second floor and the pipe won't be sealed below it?

Thanks

[FloridaOrange]

That water heater isn't going anywhere! Just curious, are you in CA?

[uuu1234]

That water heater isn't going anywhere! Just curious, are you in CA?

Yeap, required by code.

[FloridaOrange]

I've seen mention of earthquake straps just obviously don't see them around here. One day we may need floats though.

[hj]

Where is your clothes washing machine? If it is nearby, you can run the drain line to its standpipe.

[uuu1234]

You do have to worry about the height of the drain. Don not go over 8 ft above the drain outlet of the softener. In your case, you will be alright. As far as tapping into the drain, you should use a "y" strainer with a pee trap and an air gap.

Thanks for your help, what about vent? for obvious reason, I don't see a easy way to install vent all the way to second floor...

[uuu1234]

Where is your clothes washing machine? If it is nearby, you can run the drain line to its standpipe.

Unfortunatelly, washer / dryer are on second floor...The closest drain I can see is the toilet drain right above water heater and the drain in my back yard, of course I may get into big trouble if I actually discharge brine water into the garden drain -> storm drain on the street...:D

[hj]

Yes, it is kind of difficult to disguise white salt residue on the street, and it also makes it easy to tell where it is coming from.