Last Updated on March 22, 2021 by HVAC
How to Install a Condensate Pump (AC or Furnace)
It is easy to install your own condensate pump if you are a home owner and have been having problems with your gas furnace or general heating and cooling system.
You may notice an excess of moisture if you check the area where the heating and cooling unit is located or you may need to have your current pump tested to see whether it is working or not.
In general, you can install the pump yourself with just a few tools and a couple of hour’s time or even less.
To begin the installation you need to have chosen the condensate pump that you want to use. The pump should be designed for your type of furnace, whether you have a gas furnace or another type of system. And just as a side note, make sure to check your furnace filter while you’re already working on it or as part of your regular maintenance program.
You can check out this article if you’re unsure about How To Tell If Condensate Pump Is Working?
Water condensation is common on all heating and cooling units, including whole house HVAC systems. A condensation pump will work to remove any excess water that may damage your heating and cooling unit. The pump is simple to install with just a few tips and tools.
Tools Needed
- Condensation Pump
- Drainage Line (tubing or PVC pipe)
- Drainage (somewhere for the water to go)
- Saw (optional – for commercial applications)
- Drill (optional – for commercial applications)
- Scissors or Razor Knife (Optional – for home applications)
To begin installation you need to have a few items on hand including your condensation pump. Make sure you get the best condensation pump possible by checking out our top picks article.
You”ll also need a piece of pipe long enough to reach the drain for your heating and cooling system, enough fittings to connect the pipe to the drain and the pump, a saw and a drill are all commonly used when installing a pump. You will want to measure the pipe carefully before cutting it or your drainage system won’t work properly.
You may also want to take the time to fit all of the pieces of the pipe together before gluing the PVC to ensure it will work properly. PVC pipe is inexpensive and works well for installing a condensation pump in commercial applications, but if you accidentally glue the pieces together incorrectly you may have to saw a coupling off and have to run and buy another one. Save yourself some time and simply work the pieces together before gluing.
For most home installations, you’ll use a thin piece of plastic tubing. Usually you can buy a “kit” that includes the pump, tubing and everything you’ll need for the install. Just make sure you check the packaging to see what is included and clearly understand what you’re going to need.
The Installation
Your condensation pump installation will be fairly straightforward. You may need to have an extension cord on hand if there isn’t an electrical outlet near your heating and cooling unit but this is a simple fix. You will also need to install a trap between the heating and cooling unit and the pump to ensure no debris enters the pump. This will ensure your pump has a long life. After connecting the pipe to the furnace drain you will then connect it to the pump.
After measuring your pipe you should then cut it to the size that you need. It is always better to cut the pipe longer if you aren’t sure the measurements are right. You will typically install the condensation pump lower than the drain to promote drainage since the pump depends on gravity to work correctly. The pump itself can be installed on the floor if it needs to be. The pump will work to push the excess moisture out when it is turned on. After connecting the pipes properly you can plug your pump into the nearest outlet.
Maintenance
A high quality condensation pump won’t need a lot of maintenance. You may want to clean the exterior of the pump periodically if dust is an issue in your area but the pump will work for many years to come if it is draining correctly. The installation of the pump is critical since the water has to drain for the pump to work correctly. You may find that a professional installation is helpful if you aren’t sure how the pump connects to the furnace or you’re working with plenums.
If you have a good installation the maintenance of your condensation pump is very limited. You may want to check the drain lines annually to ensure the water is moving out of the system but this only takes a few moments.
If you aren’t sure which type of system that you have installed talk to a professional about which type of pump is right for your home.
Hopefully this guide has helped you in installing your condensate pump. If you have questions, just ask in the comments below. We’ll do all we can to help!
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