Condensate pumps are widely used in HVAC systems and commercial buildings to manage condensate (or moisture) produced by industrial refrigeration, soda machines, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning systems. In effect, the pump is responsible for pumping the excess condensate out of the system into a holding tank. Ultimately, the condensate in the holding tank is piped to a drain.
Typically, small-scale condensate pumps are electrically powered, and they may be constructed out of heavy-duty steel or cast-iron. Condensate pumps made of cast iron typically last longer, but they are much heavier and more difficult to install.
How to Select a Condensate Pump
When choosing a condensate pump, there are a number of questions to ask. First, you should determine local regulations on condensate disposal. In some locations, there are strict guidelines for disposal. The reason is that condensate is comprised of water created by steam, and as a result may be contaminated with dust, bacteria, or chemical traces from water treatment.
Plus, there are several considerations you should make about the actual pump, including:
- Tank Capacity: Condensate pumps are equipped with tanks that hold processed condensate. It’s important to match the size of the tank to the volume of output. Sizes range from very small of 2-4 liters, up to 150 liters or more. In general, the size of the tank must be larger for larger-scale systems like an industrial HVAC or refrigeration system.
- Water Flow Rate: As condensate is input, it must be pumped out, and this is the pump’s water flow rate. Smaller pumps tend to have limited flow rates, from about 20 to 40 liters per hour. Commercial condensate pumps, though, have flow rates of 150 liters per hour and above. A good general rule of thumb: Choose a pump that has a flow rate of at least double of the rate condensate will flow into the pump.
- Voltage: You’ll need to first determine what voltage you can support with your existing electrical supply. In general, condensate pumps are available as 115 or 230 volts, with the 230V units providing additional pumping power. Additionally, there are some industrial-grade pumps that have voltage up to 460.
Buy condensate pumps on Deelat.com. We have some of the best prices of any industrial supplier online. Browse our selection of cast-iron condensate pumps, as well as our standard HVAC condensate pumps.
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