Goodman · Furnace troubleshooting
Condensate drain system general rules
What is going on
Rules for the condensate drain trap and field drain line.
Check in this order
- Use the drain trap supplied with the furnace.
- Prime the drain trap before the first start. Both sides of the trap must be primed.
- Route the drain line to meet local and national codes.
- Slope the drain line 1/4 in per foot downward toward the drain.
- Do not trap the drain line anywhere except at the furnace drain trap.
- Protect the drain line from freezing where it runs through cold areas.
- With an AC coil on a common drain, install an open tee near the coil to relieve positive pressure.
- Vent a common drain with an open tee no higher than the bottom of the collector box.
- Vertical installs AC coil condensate may drain into the furnace trap only if a trap sits between the coil and furnace trap and the drain does not end below the furnace trap water level.
Applies to: All furnace drain configurations
More furnace guides
- Airflow lower than demanded, furnace runs on low stage when high stage is expected
- Alternate combustion air opening (upflow or horizontal)
- Alternate vent/flue location (upflow or horizontal left)
- Annual inspection checklist
- Auxiliary limit control (location and purpose)
- Auxiliary limit switch open (blower compartment)
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Source: Goodman GMVC96 service manual, p. 19-20. Written in our own words; check the manual for your exact model.
For licensed technicians. Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a qualified, licensed person. Shut off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and follow the manufacturer’s manual for the exact model; it and local codes always take priority. HVACopedia is not affiliated with any manufacturer; brand and model names only identify the equipment.