
What is a Condensate Pump used for?
- HVAC systems
- Refrigeration systems
- Condensing furnaces
- Boilers
- Steam systems
Full Answer
What can go wrong with the condensate pump?
A condensate pump is a device that collects and pumps out condensate water from heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems that gravity cannot achieve. The condensate water usually goes through a pipe to an outside drain. The condensate pump has three major parts: the water tank or reservoir, the float, and the pump.
What is a condensate pump and purpose?
May 23, 2017 · A condensate pump is a specific type of pump used to pump the condensate (water) produced in a heating or cooling, refrigeration, condensing boiler furnace, or steam system. In HVAC or refrigeration process, the water that …
What is the purpose of a condensation pump?
Mar 30, 2022 · A condensate pump is used to remove the water vapor that occurs when biogas is extracted from landfill sites, it can also be used in other settings such as in the home to remove water vapor from air conditioning or heating systems. In this article we will be looking at condensate pumps within landfill sites and biogas production facilities.
What is the best condensate pump?
A condensate pump is a specific type of pump used to pump the condensate (water) produced in a heating or cooling, refrigeration, condensing boiler furnace, or steam system. In HVAC or refrigeration process, the water that condensate has to be drained from the system.

Is a condensate pump necessary?
Because gravity will not move this water to a drainage system at ground level, a type of water pump known as a condensate pump is required in order to provide easy access.
What is the function of a condensate pump?
0:311:35How Do Condensate Pumps Work? | Spec. Sense - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThrough a floor drain condensate pumps are used when a floor drain is not practical. As water flowsMoreThrough a floor drain condensate pumps are used when a floor drain is not practical. As water flows into the condensate pump basin. The water level rises and triggers the float switch. The motor then
Where does the water from a condensate pump go?
In newer homes, excess water from condensation goes right into a nearby floor drain. But many older homes don't have a floor drain next to the furnace. So furnace installers mount a condensate pump right on the furnace and route the drain line to a far-off sink or floor drain.May 20, 2019
Do you need a condensate pump for AC?
A pool of water that has reached an electrical system or power source can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs to ensure the safety of those in your household. The condensate or AC drain pump is there to ensure that liquid doesn't build up in the system and put it (or you) at risk.Apr 4, 2018
What happens if condensate pump fails?
What Happens If a Condensate Pump Fails? The biggest indicator of an issue with your condensate pump is that your air conditioner won't turn on. The AC shuts off to prevent the pump's water reservoir from overflowing. If your condensate pump is malfunctioning, it may need to be repaired, cleaned or replaced.Jan 27, 2019
How often should my boiler condensate pump run?
once every 3 monthsIt is essential that the condensate pump system is regularly checked for correct operation. The frequency will depend on the environment in which the unit is operating but should be a minimum of once every 3 months.Apr 9, 2018
How reliable are condensate pumps?
These pumps are very reliable, but they require periodic maintenance to prevent premature failure. A condensate pump that operates incorrectly can overflow and cause significant water damage. The excess moisture can lead to unhealthy mold and mildew growth inside your home.
Does a condensate pump run all the time?
Condensate Pump Floats When the float reaches a certain point, a switch is triggered which sends the water outside or to a drain. If that float gets hung when the water level rises and can't slip back down into its natural position, the condensate pump will run continuously.Mar 9, 2022
How long should a condensate pump last?
Going through condensate pumps every 2-3 years.Sep 28, 2019
Does my boiler need a condensate pump?
If the condensing boiler is situated below the drainage line, then you will need a condensate pump to help remove the wastewater from your home. For example, if your boiler is installed in the cellar or basement, then gravity will not be able to take the wastewater to the drainage system at ground level.Jun 20, 2018
Do I need a condensate pump on my furnace?
The condensate trap is absolutely mandatory for a high-efficiency gas furnace. Since the drain taps into the exhaust system, leaving it open to the air would allow for a potential exhaust/flue gas leak in the living space, which is a big no-no.
What does a condensate pump sound like?
A loud gurgling or bubbling noise can be a sign of a clogged drain pipe or malfunctioning condensate pump. When a condensate pump starts to fail, it can lead to excess water building up. It creates the noise as it tries to get rid of the water.Feb 13, 2019
What is a condensate pump?
A condensate pump is a specific type of pump used to pump the condensate (water) produced in a heating or cooling, refrigeration, condensing boiler furnace, or steam system. In HVAC or refrigeration process, the water that condensate has to be drained from the system. The condensation process usually occurred when the air passes though ...
How many volts does a condensate pump use?
The condensate pump that is used in residential system is usually 120 volt and simple in function. However, regular inspection of this unit is critical as you do not want to find water all over your carpet, furniture or dripping from the ceiling.
How does condensation happen in a cooling system?
The condensation process usually occurred when the air passes though the cold evaporator coil during the cooling process. As a result, the moisture that accumulate on the coil then drip down into the drain pan that is placed underneath the coils. Some systems are able to use the gravitational force to flow the water that accumulate on the drain pan.
Do air conditioners use a condensate pump?
However, there are many instances when the air conditioning systems require to use a condensate pump to get the water out to prevent the water from dripping onto the floor or in the attic. The condensate pump that is used in residential system ...
What is a condensate pump?
What is a condensate pump? In HVAC or refrigeration process, the water that condensate need to be channeled out from the building to proper drainage outside the building. The condensation process usually occurred when the air passes though the cold evaporator coil during the cooling process.
How to know if air conditioner is using a condensate pump?
It is always a good idea to find out whether your air conditioner is using the pump in its operation. Generally, the condensate pump has the following specifications and functions that you should know: Float Switch is an input that is used whether to energize the pump or otherwise. When the water accumulate on the tank reaches the level set on ...
Why is it important to drain out water in a temperate system?
This is important because the water that is not drained out will freeze and may crack the piping or cause improper functioning of the system. See Also. Centrifugal Pump.
Does a drain pan need a pump?
Systems that are able to use the gravitational force to flow the water that accumulate on the drain pan does not require the use of the pump.
What is the purpose of a condensate pump?
A condensate pump is a device used to move and direct the flow of wastewater produced by boilers, furnaces, and air conditioning systems. This condensed steam or water vapor exits these systems through a steam trap and collects in a nearby pan or tub. As the levels get high, ...
What is a special pump for condensate?
Some types of condensate may require special pumps that are capable of dealing with the minerals and other by-products found in the condensate. This may include acidic materials, particularly when the pump is used with a manufacturing or industrial furnace or boiler.
How does a water pump work?
The pump directs wastewater back to the boiler for purification and reuse. Some systems may simply capture the heat energy from the condensate, then reuse this energy for heating or manufacturing processes. The water can then be expelled from the building through normal channels.
How is condensate produced?
It's produced during the heat exchange process, which is performed by both heat pump s and air conditioners. Furnaces and boilers produce condensate as the steam used in these systems cools and returns to a liquid state. All of these systems produce some form of condensate, and all but the most basic include some type of condensate pump.
Where does condensate exit?
It may exit into the municipal sewer system, or sump pit. Because condensate contains some minerals and combustion by-products, it may require special handling in some applications. The hot temperature of the condensate may also impact disposal. In factories and industrial settings, the condensate pump may be used as part ...
What is a condensate pump?
A condensate pump is a specific type of pump used to pump the condensate ( water) produced in an HVAC (heating or cooling), refrigeration, condensing boiler furna ce, or steam system.
How does a condensate pump work?
Condensate pumps usually run intermittently and have a tank in which condensate can accumulate. Eventually, the accumulating liquid raises a float switch energizing the pump. The pump then runs until the level of liquid in the tank is substantially lowered. Some pumps contain a two-stage switch. As liquid rises to the trigger point ...
What happens when a pump is triggered?
Some pumps contain a two-stage switch. As liquid rises to the trigger point of the first stage, the pump is activated. If the liquid continues to rise (perhaps because the pump has failed or its discharge is blocked), the second stage will be triggered.
Where is the condensate pump located?
In a steam power plant, particularly shipboard ones, the condensate pump is normally located adjacent to the main condenser hotwell often directly below it. This pump sends the water to a make-up tank closer to the steam generator or boiler.
What is a two pump suction head?
Two pumps in succession are used to provide sufficient net positive suction head to prevent cavitation and the subsequent damage associated with it. This pump is usually associated with a much larger tank, float switch, and an electric motor than the example above.
Is condensate water distilled water?
Condensate water is distilled water but often contains chemicals. If it is being condensed from an air stream, it may have dust, microbes, or other contaminants in it. If it is condensed from steam, it may have traces of the various boiler water treatment chemicals.
Can you put condensate water in a dehumidifier?
In most locales, condensate water must be pumped to the outside of the dwelling; generally feeding condensate water into se wer pipes is not permitted.
How do condensates form?
Condensates form when their vapor pressure is lowered to the point that the natural gas liquids condense out of the gas stream into a liquid that can be stored at room temperature.
How is crude condensate separated?
It can be separated through crude oil stabilization and fed into the gas stream for processing.
What is the liquid form of hydrocarbons?
Condensates are the liquid form of these hydrocarbons that take their name from the process of removing them from the gas stream by processing with specific temperature and pressure.
What is natural gas used for?
Once separated, treated, and refined, natural gas liquids have a wide range of applications, including petrochemical feed stocks used to create plastics, heating, and production of gasoline. Condensates are also a preferred diluent for blending with heavier Canadian crudes to improve pipeline flow.
Is NGL a condensate?
Natural gas liquids (NGL) and condensate can generally be used interchangeably. NGLs and condensates both comprise a mixed stream of hydrocarbons representing light hydrocarbons, such as ethane, and heavier hydrocarbons, such as pentane.