What is a Mini Split Condensate Pump?

As part of the cooling process, air conditioners produce water. Removing that excess water is critical for the AC unit to function. This is where the AC condensate pump comes in. 

In this guide, we discuss their function, why they are necessary, and how to choose the right condensate pump for your AC or mini split.

What is Condensate?

Air conditioners produce water as a byproduct of cooling, known as condensate. This excess water is produced during the condensation process, when the air is passed through the cold evaporator coil. The moisture accumulates on the coil and drips down into a collection area. 

You may have noticed this excess water dripping from the back of your AC, or drained through a tube underneath the outdoor compressor. Most systems simply allow gravity to dispense of the condensate into a drain pan or drain line.

However, if you cannot drain with gravity, you must use a condensate pump to get the water out.

What is a Condensate Pump?

An AC condensate pump is a special type of pump that deals with the condensate generated by an air conditioning system, such as a mini split or a central air conditioning system. 

The condensate pump ensures that excess water is dispensed away from the unit and into a suitable drain. Some AC units can produce up to20 gallons of condensate per day, making proper drainage important.

How Does an AC Condensate Pump Work?

An AC condensate pump consists of three major parts: the reservoir, float, and pump. They all work together to collect and drain the condensate.

When the reservoir gets filled with condensate, it lifts the float. The float in turn activates the pump to siphon the collected water through a drain line and out to the home’s exterior or to another drain. As the water is drained, the float descends and automatically turns off the pump. Some systems have an electronic float instead of a physical float.

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What are the Typical Specs of an AC Condensate Pump?

Drainage Type

There are two main types of condensate pumps:

Gravity-fed pumps – These use gravity to discharge the water from the collection pan to the drain. Such models are usually used in attics or elevated parts of the house where water can flow downwards.

Pump-assisted condensate pumps – These use a motor to transport the water from the collection pan to the drain. They are designed for use in areas where water cannot naturally flow down .

Power

Most condensate pumps use 110 volts. They are often plugged into a standard wall outlet located close to the AC unit. Some models can also use 208/240 volt and are able to be wired into the air conditioners existing power source. 

Holding capacity

AC condensate pumps typically have a reservoir tank that can hold from 0.5 to 1 gallon. 

However, smaller condensate pumps may not have a reservoir. Instead, they are placed directly on the drain pan of the AC to pump out the collected water. 

This also applies to compact pumps designed specifically for use with mini splits that take up much less space.

Why is an AC Condensate Pump Important?

• It ensures proper drainage of condensate.
• Drainage is critical to the continued operation of your AC system. A frozen evaporator coil or blocked compressor due to excess condensate is the common cause of many AC problems.
• The pump prevents water from dripping onto the floor or in the attic and causing water damage.

How to Choose the Right AC or Mini Split Condensate Pump 

1. Determine what type of AC unit you have

There are condensate pumps that are used for specific types of air conditioning systems. Identify what type of AC you have, such as ducted or split, and start from there.

Also consider the specific model. Floor, wall-mounted, and ceiling cassette units may have their own types of condensate pumps.

2. Look at your AC’s cooling capacity 

Consult your owner’s manual or AC specs to determine the cooling capacity. This is often measured in kWh or BTUs, and determines how much condensate it can produce per hour. Larger AC units typically produce more condensate, requiring pumps with bigger discharge capacities.

3. Consider your local climate

The amount of condensate discharged can differ significantly between dry and humid climates. The water generated in humid areas or tropical zones can be double that of drier regions. Homes located in humid areas may need a high performance pump designed for humid climate conditions.

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Other Features to Look for in an AC or Mini Split Condensate Pump

✔ Installation location

An AC condensate pump can be mounted in many different ways. It can be installed next to the unit, below, inside, or remotely above the AC.

For indoor settings, you may have a specific location preference to hide the unit, make it more accessible for cleaning, or have an obstruction.

✔ Two-stage switch

Some condensate pumps feature a two-stage switch to guard against overflow. As the tank gets filled to the first stage, the pump is activated to drain the tank. 

If the condensate level continues to rise because the pump has failed or the discharge is blocked, a second stage is engaged. The pump then either shuts off automatically or triggers an alarm.

This makes such models safer and reduces the risks of overflow.

✔ Noise level

Like all pumps, condensate pumps emit noise during operation. This is measured in decibels, or db(A). The lower the number, the less noise it generates during use.

Quieter pumps are better when used in areas such as the bedroom or living room.

✔ Brand and warranty

Since condensate pumps are a critical complement to the AC unit, choose a pump from a reliable brand or manufacturer. Also check whether the vendor that carries the brand pairs it with a good warranty for peace of mind.

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Our Recommended AC and Mini Split Condensate Pumps

Condensate pump for wall-mounted mini splits:

Refco GOBI-II 120/240 VAC External Condensate Removal Pump

This handy little condensate pump is designed for use with wall-mounted mini splits. It has a compact size of 11 1/4″L x 2 1/8″W x 2 1/8″D, so it can be placed unobtrusively below indoor wall units. Since it mounts directly below the unit, it is convenient to install and easy to replace.

But don’t let its size fool you! It can remove up to 11 gallons of water/hour, and is compatible with almost any system from 6,000 BTUs up to larger 120,000 BTU units. A USB port allows access pump history, and wireless access is available as an option.

The Gobi-II uses a standard 120/240VAC; 50/60 Hz auto sensing universal power input and will operate with water temperatures from 41° – 77°F (5° – 25°C) and ambient air temperatures from 37.5° – 104°F (3° – 40°C). It comes with a 1/4″ x 3.3′ discharge hose.

AC condensate pump for universal installation:

Refco COMBI Condensate Removal Pump – Universal Voltage

This flexible condensate pump is designed to accommodate all types of mini splits. It has flexible installation options including interior mounting of both the water sensor and the pump, either side by side, or vertical water sensor installation. Additionally, the water sensor can be installed in the indoor unit with the pump installed either next to the unit or in the ceiling.

It can accommodate small mini splits with 6,000 BTUs all the way up to larger systems with 120,000 BTUs. The pump can remove up to 11 gallons of water/hour, and uses a digital water level sensor for quiet pump operation.

The Combi uses a standard 120/240VAC; 50/60 Hz auto sensing universal power input. The Combi will operate with ambient air temperatures from 37.5° – 104°F (3° – 40°C) and water temperatures from 41° – 77°F (5° – 25°C).

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Your Trusted Source for AC Condensate Pumps

At Total Home Supply, we carry a range of condensate pumps designed for different AC systems, as well as replacement filters and drain tubes. We also carry condensate pumps for dehumidifiers. 

Browse our AC condensate pumps today to ensure efficient operation and long life for your AC or mini split unit!