Basic HTML Version
Connecting multiple units to one trap often allows air to be
pulled through one or more of the units, bypassing the trap
as well. Each unit should have its own individual trap, and
some equipment makers recommend against installing the
trap more than 4 feet away from the coil.
Many manufacturers and trap makers recommend using
removable caps on tees and crosses for cleaning purposes.
Although I wouldn’t call
out the lack of a clean-out
a defect, I would suggest
to your client to have one
added during the next ser-
vicing
(see photo opposite
page, bottom right).
Commercial equipment sometimes is operated in the cooling
mode, producing condensate even during winter. When tem-
peratures drop below freezing outside, traps may freeze and
break. Rooftop units and similar equipment can be especially
susceptible to trap freezing. In most residential applications,
there tends to be enough time between freezing weather
and the need to operate the HVAC equipment in the cooling
mode for water in the trap to evaporate before it has a chance
to freeze. But, if freezing is a concern in your area, recom-
mend freeze protection for the trap in the inspection report.
The pipe
My personal experience has shown me that condensate drain-
pipes get little attention during system installation. They
often are thrown in place as if they were an afterthought
or were of little consequence to the overall operation of the
system. This, of course, could not be further from the truth.
Keeping this in mind, home inspectors should pay close at-
tention to the pipe and fit-
tings during their work.
Over the years, PVC pipe
has become the condensate
drain material of choice
for residential applications
in many areas. The 2006
International Mechanical Code (IMC) also allows cast iron,
galvanized steel, copper, polybutylene, polyethylene, ABS
and CPVC to be used. Though it’s rare to see plastic pipe
insulated, sometimes it does need to be wrapped close to
the equipment where the coolest water is exiting the pan to
prevent it from sweating. With metal drains such as copper,
failure to insulate the pipe and trap almost can guarantee
a complete soaking of the surrounding surfaces from the
secondary condensation generated by the cool water flowing
through the drainpipe.
“My personal experience has shown
me that condensate drainpipes get little
attention during system installation.”
44
22
T H E C A N A D I A N
HOME INSPECTOR
E & O INSURANCE FOR CANADIAN INSPECTORS
We know your business
Provided By
URS Insurance is the exclusive
Canadian Broker for
Arranging Insurance for Property Inspectors Since 1994
Some of the benefits included in all Errors & Omissions policies:
• Inspectors are covered to do an unlimited number of inspections.
• Inspectors are covered to inspect Residential properties up to 75 units &
Commercial properties up to 20 acres.
• Competitive rates available at the lowest deductible.
• Underwritten by CHARTIS Insurance Company of Canada.
• Claims are handled by local “Canadian” claims examiners. Our claims examiners
value your input when handling claims. Your interests are protected.
• Insured’s benefit by being part of a sizable, stable, long lasting program.
• Referring Party Coverage is included.
• Prior Acts coverage is available (upon approval).
• Simplified application process / installment plan is available.
• Inspectors new to the industry are welcomed.
• Commercial General Liability & Property Coverage is available on a separate policy.
• We have been providing insurance solutions to the inspection industry for 16+ years.
www.frea.com
For a Fast & Friendly Quote
Please Contact:
Chris Healy
URS Insurance Brokers
5045 Orbitor Dr, Bldg 11, Ste 301
Mississauga, ON L4W 4Y4
Tel:
888-747-2646 ext 222
Cell: 416-809-9695
Fax: 866-801-7774
CONDENSATE continued from page 21