5.3003.10 Condensate Drainage of Heating and Air Conditioning Equipment

Topic:

Forced Air

Subtopic:

System Assessment and Maintenance

Desired Outcome:

Equipment and condensate drain operate as designed

Note:

The authority having jurisdiction may require that a licensed professional perform certain tasks outlined in this detail.

For supporting material, see Referenced Standards and Calculation of the Infiltration Credit.

Single-Family Homes

Title	Specification(s)	Objective(s)
5.3003.10a Connection	Connections in condensate drain system will be watertight	Ensure condensate drain connections do not leak
5.3003.10b Insulation	Condensate drainlines will be insulated with a minimum 1" of insulation with a vapor retarder Vapor retarder A material that slows the passage of water vapor and contains a perm rating above 1 when there is potential for condensation or freezing on the drainline	Ensure condensate drain connections do not leak
5.3003.10c Overflow protection: upflow	Secondary drain pan and float switch will be installed when overflow could damage finished surfaces OR Float switch in the primary condensate drain for upflow systems will be installed when overflow could damage finished surfaces	Ensure condensate drain connections do not leak
5.3003.10d Pumps	Condensate drain pumps will be installed when condensate cannot be drained by gravity Power source for pump will be installed Operation and drainage of pump will be verified	Ensure condensate drain connections do not leak
5.3003.10e Vents and traps	Vents and traps will be installed on condensate drainlines Trap supplied with the equipment will be used and manufacturer specifications will be followed	Ensure condensate drain operates as designed Ensure condensate drain does not leak air
5.3003.10f Drain pan	Condensate from all cooling coils or evaporators shall be conveyed from the drain pan outlet to an approved place of disposal Such piping shall maintain a minimum horizontal slope in the direction of discharge of not less than 1/8 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1% slope) Condensate shall not discharge into a street, alley, or other areas where it would cause a nuisance	Prevent water damage from drain system malfunction
5.3003.10g Float switch	All secondary drain pans will have a float switch and be drained away through a drainline	Prevent water overflowing the pan and draining onto the ceiling below
5.3003.10h Termination	Condensate drain will be terminated in accordance with local codes	Ensure condensate does not leak to the house Ensure condensate drain does not freeze