If you have a high-efficiency HVAC system for heating and air conditioning, you will need a way to route the condensate to drain. Sometimes, it's possible to run a line to a floor drain, while at other times, you will require what is known as a condensate pump. The home inspection specialists at HomePro Inspections offer the following information to help you understand what this crucial device is, how it functions, and how to keep it running efficiently.
A condensate pump is positioned next to an HVAC system.
What is condensate, and where does it come from?
High-efficiency HVAC heating systems and air conditioners generate condensate during normal operation. Other appliances in your home, such as water heaters, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers, also produce condensate.
High-efficiency heating systems feature a sealed combustion chamber. The water created during the combustion process has nowhere to go and must be drained from the system.
Air conditioners generate condensate as they cool the air across the cooling coils. Moisture in the air condenses on the coils and drains into a pan, which also needs to be drained away from the system.
What is a condensate pump?
As your HVAC system operates, it generates condensate. This condensate builds up and needs to be directed to a drain to avoid damaging the system or structure. Sometimes, a homeowner can connect a drain line to a nearby floor drain. A condensate pump may be necessary if a floor drain isn't nearby. A condensate pump is a small unit consisting of a sump and a compact, motorized pump. Its purpose is to move the condensate to a remote drain located in a different section of the mechanical system room.
In the photo below, the two one-inch PVC lines on the left side deposit condensate from the HVAC system. The flexible braided line on the right pumps the condensate up and over to a laundry sink on the other side of the room.
A condensate pump with inlet and discharge tubes
How does a pump function?
The condensate from your HVAC system drains into the sump section of the pump enclosure. A float within the sump activates the pump when the condensate level reaches its maximum.
When the float activates the motor, the condensate is pumped through the discharge tube to a designated location, such as a floor drain or a laundry sink. The pump continues running until the float indicates the sump is empty.
Maintaining your pump is crucial.
Ensuring your condensate pump operates and drains correctly will prevent water from flooding the area within and around your HVAC system.
Inspect your condensate pump and the inlet and outlet lines to ensure they are free of damage. Make sure to unplug the condensate pump before performing any maintenance.
If your condensate pump has excess debris and organic growth buildup, you may need to disassemble it and clean it using a bottle brush. Sometimes, soaking the sump area with vinegar can help remove stubborn stains. Clean as necessary and reassemble for use.
Once everything is cleaned and reassembled, plug the unit back in and monitor it to ensure it functions correctly.
If you notice significant organic growth in your condensate pumps, consider using pellets that prevent the growth of algae and mold.
Summary
When a HomePro Inspections home inspector conducts an inspection, they always check the heating and cooling systems. During this inspection, the inspector examines any condensate drain lines to determine if they flow directly to a floor drain or through a condensate pump to another location.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN, area. You can contact us today at (507) 202-8942, by email, or use our online “Schedule Now” feature.