Drain adapters solve HVAC condensate challenge
Problem: A very large beach home on the North Carolina coast faced a unique plumbing challenge: the installation of multiple HVAC systems, each requiring condensate pumps with rigid PVC discharge lines. Local codes mandated the use of air gaps, so the HVAC contractor sought a solution that could handle both high and low flow rates.
Solution: The contractor chose three DrainGap Multi-Port Drain Adapters from Vista Water Group, which offer air gaps certified to the ASME A112.1.3 standard. Although the condensate pumps produced low flow rates, the inspector required larger diameter, rigid PVC discharge lines leading to the drain adapter and a 3-inch outlet standpipe. DrainGap’s robust design can accommodate up to 11 gpm, but an issue arose when the pumps shut off – residual water in the rigid pipes formed a tiny stream that tended to wander out of the air gap windows. To address this, the contractor quickly installed the low-flow adapters included with each of the four-inlet DrainGap drain fittings. These adapters efficiently focused the small water flow into the body of the unit, eliminating overflow and ensuring proper drainage.
Result: As a result, the contractor complied with all code requirements while managing varying flow rates, providing a safe, effective, certified air gap for the condensate discharge. 419-565-5702; www.vistawatergroup.com
