High-efficiency water heaters, boilers, or furnaces come with a ton of benefits. As someone who has installed many tankless water heaters from Noritz and Eemax over the years, there are very few drawbacks to getting a system like this. But one issue people deal with is condensate. Many times, the condensate is not able to drain through gravity to an existing drain line, which is where a great condensate pump comes into the picture.
Why Condensate Pumps Are Important
High-efficiency heating appliances create condensate because they use a process called condensing combustion. This process captures more of the heat from the combustion process, which makes the appliances more efficient.
As a byproduct, it also produces more acidic condensate. The acidity of the condensate from high-efficiency heating appliances can cause problems if it is not properly treated or disposed of. The acid can corrode pipes, drains, and other infrastructure. It can also pollute the environment if it is not properly treated.
Many times, the condensate is not able to drain through to an existing drain line with gravity alone. This is where a great condensate pump comes into the picture.
Discover the Top 5 Condensate Pumps
Little Giant VCMA-20UL (554421) Automatic Condensate Removal Pump
The VCMA-20UL Automatic Condensate Removal Pump from Little Giant is a powerful and efficient pump that comes in at a great price point. The pump has a capacity of 80 gallons per hour and can lift condensate up to 20 feet. Naturally, Little Giant equipped this pump with a built-in float switch and a 1/30 HP motor. The pump is easy to install and maintain, and a condensate neutralizer would be needed in addition to this pump.
Caleffi 281966A Anti-Condensing Valve w/Pump 1"SWT 140 F
The Anti-Condensing Valve and Pump from Caleffi is expertly designed to prevent condensation in flue gas systems, safeguarding against corrosion and ensuring seamless operation. A vital component in hydronic heating systems with non-condensing boilers, this advanced device extends the life of your equipment.
Combining the crucial functionality of a boiler protection valve with a high-efficiency circulation pump, it stands out for its integrated features. Additionally, the unique flapper check valve allows for thermosyphon flow between the boiler and distribution system during power outages, ensuring continuous operation and protection.
Zoeller 519-0005 Multi-Purpose Condensate Pump
The 519-0005 Multi-Purpose Condensate Pump is an absolute work horse. Zoeller is one of the best pump manufacturers out there, so of course they would have an excellent condensate pump. The 519-0005 is a fully automatic, easy-to-install pump, with a capacity of 110 gallons per hour and can lift condensate up to 20 feet.
It is also equipped with a built-in float switch that will automatically turn on the pump when the condensate level reaches a certain height as well as a 1/30 HP motor and a vertical centrifugal pump. A condensate neutralizer is purchased separately from the pump, and with the 519-0005 being a little higher cost, it comes in as our #3 choice.
Little Giant 554401 VCMA-15UL Condensate Removal Pump
The main difference between Little Giants two pumps in this list is their capacity. The 554401 VCMA-15UL Condensate Removal Pump has a capacity of 65 gallons per hour, while the VCMA-20UL (554421) Automatic Condensate Removal Pump has a capacity of 80 gallons per hour. It also has a higher lift capacity of 20 feet, compared to the other lift capacity of 15 feet.
Other than those differences, the two pumps are very similar. They both have a vertical centrifugal pump, a built-in float switch, and they are both easy to install and maintain. A great pick if you don’t need more capacity.
Final Thoughts
A condensate pump is a great way to make sure that the condensate is removed properly and safely. The pumps listed above are some of the best on the market. When choosing a condensate pump, it is important to consider the capacity, lift, and features that are important to you. With a little research, you can find the perfect condensate pump for your needs. If you have any questions on anything, please feel free to contact us.
