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hommegrenouille
May 31, 2013, 06:35 AM
I need to connect a drain for my ac condensate. The interior coil of my heatpump unit is located in my basement in the return duct (vertical), and I would like to drain it to my sump basin located about 10 feet away. I figured I would do it this way (see this link for a crude diagram: http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7326/8901164063_82d844a131_c.jpg):

1. Threaded 3/4" PVC connector into drain outlet
2. Short 3/4" PVC pipe
3. 90 degree elbow (needed for clearance issues)
4. P trap
5. 90 degree elbow
6. 3/4" PVC pipe down to floor (vertical)
7. Transition to flexible hose leading to sump basin (easier to move out of the way when necessary, like moving things).

I don't know if a p trap is really necessary, but I thought that if the sump pump ever gave out and the AC condensate drain ever found itself sitting in a pool of water, it might turn into a straw and suck water back up into the coil.

Also, I am not sure if some kind of vent is necessary to aid drainage, perhaps connected to the vertical pipe that goes to floor level.

Maybe also a cleanout for clog removal?

Or maybe I am overthinking this. After all, my portable dehumidifier requires just a hose to do the same thing: no trap, no vent.

Thanks for your input!

ma0641
May 31, 2013, 06:54 AM
No P trap or vent necessary. A coil drain works by gravity. It should be fine.