For HPWH retrofit closets, what condensate management practices pass inspection consistently?
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To pass inspection easily, make sure your drain line slopes, is trapped, and goes to the right place (like a floor drain or sink).
- Proper Condensate Line Installation: Ensure condensate lines are correctly sized and installed to prevent backups and overflows. The lines should be sloped to facilitate smooth drainage.
- Drainage: Connect the condensate drain line to a floor drain or condensate pump, ensuring it’s directed away from the HPWH unit.
- Condensate Pump: If using a condensate pump, select one that’s appropriately sized for the HPWH’s condensate output.
For heat-pump water heater closets, inspectors consistently accept:
Dedicated condensate drain line to a floor drain or laundry tub (not just a pan).
Slope the drain ≥1/8 in/ft toward the outlet.
Overflow safety: secondary pan under the HPWH with its own drain if primary drain can’t be guaranteed.
Air gap or trap at the drain terminus to prevent backflow.
Insulate condensate lines in unheated spaces to prevent freezing.
Access for service and clearances per manufacturer instructions.
Basically: controlled, sloped drainage + secondary safety pan = inspection-friendly.
Use a sloped drain pan to floor drain, seal all penetrations, and provide airflow or drip routing to prevent standing water.
Provide a trapped drain line to an approved receptor or floor drain, slope it for flow, and include a backup pan with its own drain or pump these pass inspection most consistently.