About Condensate Neutralizers
Condensate produced by high efficiency condensing equipment, including residential and commercial gas boilers, hot water heaters and furnaces, has inherently low pH (is acidic) and poses a problem for sewer piping and septic systems.
Why use a condensate neutralizer?
When metal (especially copper and brass) drain grates/grilles, sewage piping and fittings are exposed to condensate, they quickly corrode, often causing extensive damage and costly repairs. While PVC piping is much more resistant to condensate that metal, it’s not always possible to tell whether there are metal (especially copper) parts further down the drain line.
A combination of a septic system with high condensate-producing equipment (i.e. furnace) may also pose a problem since acidic condensate kills beneficial bacteria in septic tanks and therefore disrupts their normal functioning.
In either scenario, the benefits and peace of mind from installing a condensate neutralizer far outweigh the risks of not having one.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How to select a proper size condensate neutralizer?
A: The easiest way to size a neutralizer is by the amount of condensate (in gallons) produced by the condensing equipment in an hour. If this data is not available, manufacturers suggest using BTU rating of the equipment.
Q: What if I have two condensate producing units?
A: Then their condensate flow rate (in GPH) or BTU rating should be added together when sizing. Some neutralizer models come with barbed Y-fitting designed for that specific purpose.
Q: Is it possible to undersize or oversize a neutralizer?
A: It is possible to undersize only if volume of condensate produced exceeds the neutralizer unit’s capacity. It is generally not possible to oversize the condensate neutralizer – the neutralizer media will simply last longer but otherwise will give no benefit or cause an issue.
Q: How often does neutralizer media has to be replaced?
A: It depends on the frequency of usage and volume of condensate processed. Since both factors vary widely, condensate neutralizer manufacturers do not provide this kind of data and instead suggest replacing the media as needed.
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