Condensate pumps are used to pump condensate, or water, produced from HVAC, refrigeration, condensing boiler, furnace, or steam systems. The pumps can also be used to pump the condensate produced from latent water vapor in any of the following gas mixtures:
- Conditioned (cooled or heated) building air
- Refrigerated air in cooling and freezing systems
- Steam in heat exchangers and radiators
- The exhaust stream of very-high-efficiency furnaces
The 4 Factors of Condensate Pumps
It’s important to have an accurate head measurement, GPM (gallons per minute), HP (horsepower), and voltage rating when selecting a new condensate pump. Additionally, sizing a pump for head volume and pump lift correctly is critical for the lifespan of the pump, as well as to reduce the amount of power consumed by it over its lifetime. The following is a look at these four factors along with key information about them relative to condensate pumps.
- Pump head measurement is the linear vertical measurement of the maximum height a pump can deliver a liquid to the pump outlet. A pump can only deliver a liquid to a maximum height due to the weight of the liquid above the pump mechanism becoming greater than the forces attempting to turn the pump or move the piston or diaphragm. Measuring vertically from the pump outlet to the point at which gravity takes over the flow of water in the drain line will provide an accurate measurement of the pump’s head measurement.
- GPM is normally 2 to 3 times the system condensing rate. While this rate is typical for small receiver tanks, on larger condensate tanks a system heat balance is worth reviewing. A capacity of 1½ times the condensing rate may be adequate, and the oversizing allows the pump to run ⅓ to ½ of an hour under full-load conditions. To determine the amount of condensate your furnace creates, reference the owner's manual that came with your furnace or condensing system. Place a bucket under the furnace's drain and record the amount of water produced in an hour for an accurate GPM estimate of condensate drainage.
- Horsepower is typically rated on the pump head measurement and the required GPM. Condensate pumps are often small and rated at a fraction of a horsepower, and average residential applications range from 1/30 HP to 1/50 HP. Light commercial and larger-than-average HVAC systems can require up to a 1/3 HP pump along with larger collection bins. As horsepower increases, the GPM and head pressure of the condensate pump increase as well.
- Voltage for most residential applications requires either a 115V or 120V power supply. Larger systems or special applications often require 230V pumps which are available in equal or higher horsepower than the 115V/120V pumps.
Condensate Pump with 26 GPM of Water @ 40' of Head
3 Common Condensate Pump Types
- Compact Submersible Condensate Pump: This type of pump sits inside the collection bin with the discharge and power cord exiting sealed holes in the lid.
- Low-Profile Condensate Pump: This type of pump has a smaller reservoir, making them ideal for fitting into small, compact spaces.
- Split Condensate Pump: This type of pump is designed for ductless split systems or wall unit cooling systems where there is no room or outlet for a standard condensate pump.
Zoro offers a wide selection of condensate pumps and if you ever need replacement pump parts to keep you up and running, we’ve got you covered there as well.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.