Quick And Easy Steps In Using A Condensate Pump With A Dehumidifier

by HVAC Contributor November 10, 2022, 10:00 am 1.3k Views

The most common way to drain a dehumidifier is to take the bucket out and pour the water down the drain. But this approach may be cumbersome. Consequently, employing a condensate pump sounds like a good option to eliminate this headache. Because of this, we looked into how to use one with a dehumidifier, and the results are here.

If your model has an internal condensate pump, all you need to do is connect a hose to the drain at the pump outlet, then direct the water outside to a drain that goes to the sewer. If your model doesn’t come with an external condensate pump, you can add one for the same purpose and pumping system.

Turn on the dehumidifier and the condensate pump. The float sensor in the pump won’t start pumping until the water level reaches a certain level.

To learn where to put a condensate pump on a dehumidifier and how to install one, keep reading. Also covered will be the distinction between dehumidifiers with and without condensate pumps. We’ll also provide you with some advice on how to care for your dehumidifier and how to use a dehumidifier with a condensate pump.

When Is A Dehumidifier And A Condensate Pump Used Together?

The majority of homeowners buy dehumidifiers without pumps. You might, however, require a dehumidifier with a pump in the following circumstances:

You have to pump the water that has accumulated upward since you have a dehumidifier running in the basement.
Because of the high humidity in your area, daily dehumidification is required.
You aren’t constantly there to empty the dehumidifier’s condensation.

How Can An External Condensate Pump Be Installed In A Dehumidifier?

If a dehumidifier already exists and doesn’t have an internal pump, you can instal a reasonably cost external condensate pump to it.

Instructions for installing a condensate pump may differ from brand to brand and from model to model. You should study the setup instructions to see whether the manufacturer provides any specific recommendations.

If no instructions are given, you can still follow these simple steps:

Insert one end of the hose into the pump’s opening located close to the top.
After that, join the other end to the drain port on the dehumidifier’s back. The opposing end must fit snugly in order for water to flow into the pump without trouble.
Attach a second hose from your pump to the area where you want to drain the water.
Cut a section of this tubing and secure a T-fitting so that the water coming from both sources collects in one spot.
Check out your most recent condensate pump after starting both devices. Water can be added to the tube if necessary to make sure everything is operating as it should.

Where Is The Best Place To Drain Your Dehumidifier’s Pumped Water?

It is advisable to attach the hose to the nearest floor drain or next to an air conditioner with protruding tubes.

Although you can direct the pumped condensate in any acceptable location:

a sink,
a drain in a laundry tray,
an opening like a window,
alternative drain

Useful Hints For External Condensate Pumps

Here are some pointers you may use to make sure your dehumidifier and condensate pump function properly together:

Make sure your dehumidifier is raised so the water can flow to the pump naturally.
If your unit is situated low in a basement without a pump pit, you will need to run a conduit to move the liquid up and out of the unit. In this case, be certain that the lift rating of the condensate pump you choose is suitable for the work at hand.
The dehumidifier and condensate pump need their own outlets. Make sure your power source is adequate for each device because they each normally require 115 or 230 volts to operate.
Create a hole in the dehumidifier collection bucket big enough to fit a hose good for both. Use the proper fittings, tape, or silicone for a leak-free connection between the hose and the collection bucket.

What Should You Look Out For When Picking The Right Condensate Pump For Your Needs?

Keeping the following in mind will help you choose the best condensate pump:

Determine whether your application is covered by local condensate handling and disposal legislation as the first step in choosing the suitable condensate pump. Choose a model that follows these guidelines.
You may determine the pump’s lifting demand by finding the pump’s mounting location and discharge point. The condensate flow will diminish according to the required height up to the maximum lift or “shut-off.” Select a pump with the right lift rating for your application.
Consult the service manual for your equipment to determine the condensate output, then choose a pump with a large enough capacity. The output flow of the pump should, in general, be at least twice as high as the input flow of the appliance.
Determine the voltage you require. Most pumps are available in 115 or 230V. There are a few commercial-grade pumps that run on 460V.
Choose or instal a condensate pump with an alarm or auxiliary switch backup system if a malfunctioning or leaky pump offers a danger of property damage or personal injury.

How Long Is The Hose On A Dehumidifier With A Condensate Pump Internal?

The majority of dehumidifiers with pumps include drain lines that are 15 to 16 feet long. You can lengthen your drain hose to make it longer.

Even if you attach a garden hose to the dehumidifier, the pump will still do a fantastic job of eliminating the water. However, built-in pumps could also have a limit. Even if you have to stretch the hose, keep it from becoming too long.

Taking Care Of Your Dehumidifier

Here are some upkeep suggestions you can use to make sure your dehumidifier lasts a long time:

In order to get started, consult the owner’s manual. Check the maintenance requirements for certain brands before using them.
Place the device at least 6 to 12 inches away from furniture and walls to ensure proper air intake and exhaust.
Ensure that your dehumidifier’s air inlet is open and level.
In the area where your dehumidifier is operating, make sure that all of the windows and doors are sealed tightly. If this doesn’t happen, your dehumidifier could operate nonstop to take moisture out of the air that enters the treated space. This could result in higher energy costs.
Since dehumidifiers also work best in rooms that are at 65 oF and higher, if you’re using one in a hostile environment, think about a particular dehumidifier built for those places.
According to the manufacturer’s instructions, you should change the air filter frequently to keep your dehumidifier functioning optimally.
Keep an eye on the dehumidifier’s water tank and clear out any accumulated debris. Even if it seems clean, give it a quick wash with soap and water and let it air dry before using it again.
Dry off the control panel. Use a cloth whenever cleaning is necessary.
After shutting off your dehumidifier, do not turn it back on right away. Restart the dehumidifier after waiting at least ten minutes. The pressure in the system will eventually equalise with the passage of time, protecting the compressor from damage.
Once every season, or more frequently depending on how well they are maintained, clean the grilles that take in humid air and emit dehumidified air using a vacuum brush attachment.
It’s critical to regularly inspect your dehumidifier’s evaporator coils because if the temperature falls below 60 oF, they may become clogged with ice.

Conclusion

If you don’t want the inconvenience of frequently draining your device, dehumidifiers with condensate pumps are ideal for you. If your current unit doesn’t have a condensate pump, you can either purchase one that does or add a condensate pump if it does.

Simply connect the hose to the pump’s drain outlet and point it in the direction you want the water to go to use it.