The condensate that forms on coils of indoor and outdoor units must be collected and disposed of safely. Contractors should follow BC Plumbing Code 2018 and consider the following when installing and/or connecting condensate drainage piping:

• Drains should slope downhill. Drain can be routed with line set and run to a suitable termination point, away from crawl spaces, walkways and outdoor equipment.
• Some units, such as ducted mini-splits and ductless cassette units, have limited vertical lift built in.
• Do not exceed manufacturer's specifications for the vertical lift allowed before a continuous downward slope, otherwise a condensate pump may be required.
• Wrap the indoor and through wall section of the drainage pipe in polyurethane foam insulation.
• Use smooth, hard PVC-U drainage pipe if drainage pipe runs laterally - flexible, ribbed drainage pipe can be used for vertical drainage.
• Where pipe traps are recommended by the manufacturer to reduce negative pressure, install in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
• Use mechanical connectors (jubilee clips) to connect the hoses.
• Locate indoor units suitably to avoid the need for a condensate pump. Where unavoidable, install a condensate pump in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. Advise the owner of the maintenance requirements of the pump and that it may make noise. In addition, ensure that the pump has a system cut-off switch if it fails or doesn't drain properly.
• Condensate drains should be tied in upstream of a trap and not tied into a vent.

Do Not:

• Allow the condensate outlet pipe to be immersed in water, as this can cause an air lock and prevent water drainage under gravity.
• Use flexible drainage piping in internal wall spaces.
• Use flexible ribbed drainage piping for lateral pipe runs, as water may sit in the ribs or low points may occur in the pipe.
• Use electrical conduit as a drainage pipe.
• Discharge where it can run over a footpath as it may become slippery or freeze in winter.