What is the purpose of a condensate drain trap?
A properly functioning (and properly designed) condensate trap provides for discharge of water from the cooling coil drain pan, while the water seal (the water level maintained in the trap) prevents the flow of ambient air into or out of the air handler.
What causes condensation in an air conditioner drain?
Air conditioning condensate drain clogging – how to de-clog the A/C condensate line or drain pump. Air Conditioning Condensate Handling defects lead to condensate spillage, leaks, mold. Where should the air conditioner or heat pump condensate drain be connected – where are we permitted to dump condensate?
Do you need a trap for a condensate drain?
Condensate drain systems accepted as the “industry standard” include water traps, like the one shown in Figure 2. Properly designed and maintained, trapped systems can provide successful condensate drainage.
What kind of piping to use for condensate drain?
307.1 Condensate drain piping must be corrosion resistant for condensate from fuel burning appliances. using “corrosion-resistant material” and sized “no smaller than the drain connection on the appliance” 307.2.2 Condensate drain piping materials can be “… cast iron, galvanized polybutylene, polyethylene, ABS, CPVC or PVC pipe or tubing”
What is the building code for HVAC condensate drains?
Model building code requirements for a trap on the HVACR condensate drain system Section 407.2.4, Traps, requires that “Condensate drains shall be trapped as required by the equipment or appliance manufacturer.” We interpret this provision to defer to the equipment manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Condensate drain systems accepted as the “industry standard” include water traps, like the one shown in Figure 2. Properly designed and maintained, trapped systems can provide successful condensate drainage.
What happens if you don’t clean condensate drain?
This is the condensate drain, which plays an important role in removing condensation produced by your air conditioner’s evaporator coil. If the line isn’t properly cleaned, algae and mold can grow inside and clog the drain, causing elevated humidity, musty odors and water damage inside your home.
Where to clean the condensate line in an AC unit?
You will need these items to clean your A/C condensate drain: 1. Turn off the power to your HVAC system at the thermostat and at the breaker. 2. If you have an indoor air handler in your attic or utility closet, you’ll need to find the condensate pan. This is usually located directly under the unit.
Why do I need to clean my air conditioner drain line?
Even HVAC technicians may forget to clean the drain during a regular service call, which means that it’s up to you to check and clean the condensate pan and drain line before a problem develops. Cleaning the line will remove clogs and blockages and prevent algae and mold from growing. You will need these items to clean your A/C condensate drain: