Condensate Pump

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 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. 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 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.

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 used to energize the pump. When the water reaches set level the float switch will turn on the pump until the water is drained from the tank. Once this happens, the switch will turn off the pump.

• Tank of the pumps usually range from 0.5 to 1 gallon. Smaller pump may not have any tank but is placed directly on the drain pan to pump the condensate water out of the pan.

If you discover that the condensate pump is not working properly call Sevierville Heating and Air so we can send out a technician to trouble shoot and repair or replace the pump.