HVAC Drip & Drain Pans, Condensate Trays

The purpose of a condensate pan is to collect the condensation that is naturally produced by Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. As a normal part of their operations HVAC systems will produce water condensate that is released through drain piping or forms on the exterior and drips off of the unit. HVAC Drain Pans are used to keep this condensate from leaking into materials around or under the HVAC system.

Factors in Selecting an HVAC Condensate Pan

Location, Location, Location

One key factor in determining the right condensation tray is where the HVAC system is located. If your system is located in a small closet you will need to consider sizing and design on the condensate pan. If you have a hanging HVAC system you will need to make sure your drain pan incorporates features that allow it to be hung under the HVAC unit. Determine the location of your HVAC unit before deciding what condensate pan to use.

How Much Condensate?

HVAC systems will produce varying amounts of condensate depending on numerous factors. High humidity in the air surrounding the HVAC unit will promote more condensation forming. How long the unit must run will impact the volume of condensate. The size of the HVAC system also plays a role in condensation forming.

When it comes to determining what HVAC Drain Pan to use for your system make sure you consider how much water will need to be managed and how it will be managed. Will it be allowed to evaporate in the tray or will it be pumped out of the tray at a certain level? What volume of water is estimated to be held in the condensate pan? These factors will impact what type of pan is required.

Footprint of HVAC Unit

The physical size of your HVAC system will determine the required dimensions on your condensate tray. You will want to make sure that the drain pan used covers the full area where potential condensate may be produced. Any potential leakage of condensate will have a damaging impact on the materials around your HVAC unit over time. Make sure the condensate tray used protects the area potentially affected.

Think of the Environment

If your HVAC system is going to be exposed to corrosive environments drain pan used with the unit will as well. Consider using a material like stainless steel with a higher corrosion resistance in places where salty air has an impact or in industrial environments that may have a high impact on the metal used in the HVAC Drain Pan.