How to Choose a Condensate Pump​?

In the world of air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration, choosing the right condensate pump is very important. This choice helps ensure a long and trouble-free working life.

When selecting a condensate pump for individual applications, there are 4 key criteria you must consider.

1. The amount of condensate your equipment will produce.
2. Pumping head and horizontal run of the discharge hose & in some pumping technologies the number of 90-degree bends in the discharge hose.
3. The Temperature of the condensate water.
4. The duty cycle rating of the pump.

Each one of these criteria can affect the reliability of the installation.

There are four main pumping technologies used in today’s condensate pump industry. Each one has unique reasons for being used in different applications.

• Centrifugal
• Solenoid Water Pump
• Diaphragm
• Peristaltic

Centrifugal pumps are some of the most common condensate pumps in HVAC and refrigeration systems. They work well for larger equipment because they can deliver high flow rates, usually between 100 and 1,000 GPM.

Centrifugal pumps are also bigger than other types, making them good for places with enough space and capacity.

These pumps are often used in hot water and steam systems, where their design is standard. However, while they can move a lot of water, they are not the most energy-efficient choice.

Certain piping setups can hurt their performance. For example, 90-degree bends and long horizontal runs in the discharge line can lower efficiency. A check valve should be added to the discharge line. This will prevent condensate from flowing back into the tank when the pump turns off.

In the last 25 years, solenoid water pumps have become popular. This is especially true with the growth of smaller split air conditioning systems. These pumps are much smaller in size compared to centrifugal pumps, making them ideal for compact installations.

Solenoid pumps typically offer lower flow rates, around 10 GPH, but they can achieve higher pumping heads of up to 100 feet. Unlike centrifugal pumps, their performance is not as affected by horizontal pipes and 90-degree bends. This makes them more versatile in tight or complex piping layouts.

However, a notable drawback is that solenoid pumps can be noisy, especially when operating with short pumping heads.

Diaphragm pumps are replacing solenoid pumps in mini-split air conditioning systems. They are quieter, even at low pumping heads. This makes them particularly suitable for residential or noise-sensitive environments.

However, diaphragm pumps typically offer lower flow rates and pumping heads compared to solenoid pumps. They work best for small air conditioning systems. These systems usually have a cooling capacity of up to 15 kW.

Peristaltic pumps became popular about 25 years ago as an alternative to solenoid pumps. They have many benefits. They can run dry without damage and operate quietly, making them good for noise-sensitive areas.

One important innovation was the use of thermal sensing technology. This technology measures the temperature difference between the air entering and leaving the cooling coils. This improves system control and efficiency.

However, peristaltic pumps came with limitations. They had restricted flow rates, and the special tubing required for long operational life needed regular replacement. Additionally, if the pump was not run frequently, the tubing could become damaged, necessitating further maintenance.

As diaphragm pumps emerged with quieter operation and fewer maintenance demands, the popularity of peristaltic pumps gradually declined.

When it comes to choosing the right condensate pump for your HVAC system, Hartel stands out as the most trusted brand in the industry. Their expertise goes beyond just manufacturing pumps—they specialize in helping customers properly size and select pumps that match the specific needs of their systems. Whether you're dealing with a mini-split, furnace, or a large air conditioner unit, Hartel offers support in identifying the correct types of condensate pumps suited to each setup. Selecting the wrong size or type can lead to pump failure or system overflow, but Hartel’s solutions ensure smooth operation by guiding you through every technical aspect, including system output, height of the lift, and pump placement.

What sets Hartel apart is their attention to system compatibility and longevity. Their pumps are designed to move the condensate efficiently through long or complex drain lines, helping prevent water buildup and potential damage to your property. From vertical lifts in tight mechanical rooms to horizontal runs across long ceilings, Hartel pumps are engineered to handle the real-world challenges of HVAC installation. Plus, their support team is always ready to help troubleshoot issues or advise on installation best practices. 

When precision, reliability, and expert guidance matter, Hartel delivers. If you're looking to install or replace a condensate pump and want to avoid costly mistakes, there’s no better partner than Hartel to ensure your system performs safely and efficiently.