Heat Pump Condensate Drainage: What to Remember?
The amount of condensate generated by a heat pump depends on both the unit itself and the ambient conditions. An hour's operation with a cooling capacity of 1 kW can generate between 0.3 litres and 0.8 litres of condensate. This is a perfectly normal process. However, if the amount of water deviates significantly from these values, it is worth checking for a malfunction. The heat pump should not be leaking, and any leakage indicates a fault that should not be repaired by yourself.
What is the condenser in a heat pump?
The condenser is one of the key components in a heat pump system, playing an important role in the heat exchange process. It acts as a heat exchanger in which the refrigerant condenses (liquefies). In the condenser, the refrigerant transfers heat to the building's heating system, changing its state of aggregation from volatile to liquid. During the condensation process, the energy is given back to the environment, e.g.: to the water in the building system. The water heated in this way is used for space heating or domestic hot water in the building. The condensed medium enters the expansion valve, where the pressure and temperature of the medium are reduced so that it is returned to the evaporator. The heat exchange process then begins again.
Where to drain the condensate from the heat pump?
Condensate from the heat pump can be discharged directly into the ground, a sewer, a band drain or an absorption well. Condensate drainage from the heat pump outdoor unit is environmentally neutral. Appropriate installation will make it possible to deal with the resulting condensation from the heating unit without any problems.
Key components of the condensate drainage system
When installing a heat pump condensate drainage system. It is important to consider key elements such as the proper design of the drainage pipes so that the condensate can flow freely. Another element is the insulation of the pipes, the purpose of which is to prevent the condensate from freezing during the winter. A final consideration is the correct location of the point to which the condensate is to be discharged.
Maintenance principles and best practices for condensate drainage
Servicing of the heat pump should be carried out regularly, by a specialist. To ensure that the entire system is working properly, it is recommended that the condensate drain pipe is checked and cleaned regularly. Regular cleaning will help to protect the system from dirt and lichen, thus avoiding deterioration of the entire system. If regular maintenance is neglected, the condensate drain system can become blocked. In addition, regular inspection and maintenance will allow condensate drainage problems to be detected and resolved before they become serious.
