How do I neutralize my boiler condensate?

A condensate neutralizer is a tank or a vessel, which is installed in line with a condensate drain from a condensing boiler, water heater or furnace (before it enters the sewer). It's filled with media which raises the pH level of the condensate, making it safe to discharge into the sewage or septic system.

Hereof, how does a condensate neutralizer work?

A condensate neutralizer is a tank or a vessel, which is installed in line with a condensate drain from a condensing boiler, water heater or furnace (before it enters the sewer). It's filled with media which raises the pH level of the condensate, making it safe to discharge into the sewage or septic system.

Additionally, is a condensate neutralizer necessary? Yes, even if you don't have to use one. Typical condensate from a condensing boiler has a pH level of 3.2 to 4.5, which is acidic enough to leave stains, kill shrubs, and eat away cast iron drainage systems. So remember to include a condensate neutralizer when designing a system.

Keeping this in view, how long does a condensate neutralizer last?

Condensate neutralizers can last many years without needing to be serviced apart from replacing the media.

What is condensate neutralizer made of?

Condensate neutralizers look like tubes or boxes that are filled with gravel-like particles. These particles, which include basic compounds like calcium carbonate, CO2, and salt, filter and neutralize waste water as it moves through the drainage pipe.

18 Related Question Answers Found

Why do I need a condensate pump?

Prevent Water Damage with a Condensate Pump

You install it with the air handler. When the condensate builds up, the condensate pump pumps it out. It uses mechanical force to remove the water, so you don't have to worry about water overflowing the drain pan. It will keep the water moving out while you stay cool.

Why is condensate acidic?

There is a natural tendency for condensate to be acidic (pH 6.9 – 4.4). Low pH can damage carbon steel piping systems. This low pH is caused by carbon dioxide (almost always present) reacting with the water to form carbonic acid (similar to acid rain) as the steam condenses.

What is boiler water pH?

Boiler water pH refers to a quantitative figure that expresses the acidity or alkalinity of boiler water. Ideally it should be between 8.5 and 9.5. If the pH is lower than that, the boiler water will start eating the pipes and attacks the boiler equipments as well.

Is AC water acidic?

1 Answer. Pure condensed water is neutral (pH 7). However, water in contact with air is slightly acidic (approximately pH 5.6) due to dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2).

How much water does a furnace drain?

This water comes from both the water moisture contained in the gas fuel and in the combustion air. Now, the maximum theoretical quantity of condensate that could be produced is 1.1 gallons per hour for a 100,000 BTU input furnace operating continuously. Most applications will not produce that much.

What is an acid neutralizer?

An acid neutralizer is designed to prevent the problems associated with acidic water by raising the pH levels of your home's water to as close to 7 as possible. When water enters an acid neutralizer and comes into contact with the calcite media, calcite dissolves into the water.

How much condensate does a furnace produce?

HomeTips.com says a high-efficiency furnace can produce as much as 5 or 6 gallons of water from condensation each day. Most of the time, condensate pipes are set up to carry condensation outdoors through a hole in an exterior wall. The water is able to drain harmlessly into the ground.

How acidic is furnace condensate?

Furnace condensate is acidic, but it is not highly acidic. It is about the same as orange juice. It is usually around a PH of 5. Just found info that indicates that the condensate from the combustion process is a Ph of about 3.5 - 4 which is quite acidic.

Will marble chips neutralize acid?

The marble chips neutralize the acidity in the condensate and should be checked every few years. As the chips dissolve, more can be added.

How acidic is tankless water heater condensate?

“Water-heater condensate usually has a pH of two or three,” says Oshiro. “This acid can corrode drain pipe walls over time, leading to permanent damage.” He says one solution is installing neutralizer agent that essentially removes the liquid's acidity, protecting the pipes from damage.

What is a neutralizer on a tankless water heater?

Neutralizer. The 9007607005 Neutralizer assembly neutralizes the condensate (acidic water) that forms in the secondary heat exchanger of the water heater. It connects to the condensate drain port of the water heater by using connectors included with the neutralizer kit.

Does limestone neutralize acid?

Limestone is an alkaline agent with the ability to neutralize, or partially neutralize strong acids. The neutralization process occurs when strong acids, in intimate contact with limestone chips, react with Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃, the primary constituent of limestone) to form water, carbon dioxide, and calcium salts.

Why are condensing furnaces more efficient?

Condensing furnaces are so efficient at this process and remove so much heat from the exhaust, that the gases often cool off and condense into water and carbon dioxide. This process creates carbonic acid, which is drained away through a PVC pipe and into a drain in the floor.

How do you make a neutralizer?

To create your own neutralizer at home, mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with four cups of water. Purchase: Your chemical peel purchase will include detailed instructions for the application, neutralization and aftercare of your chemical peel.