Question:
In my new attic installation which will be inspected shortly, the code calls
for a drip pan under the AC coil unit with a separate drain line discharging
to a conspicuous location. The mechanical inspector requires that the
conspicuous location be over a front window so that any discharge is
likely to be observed.
Now, I do not want a drain outlet over a front window of my house.
Fortunately, there is an acceptable alternative which is to use a float
switch in the pan which will interrupt a call for cooling to the condenser
unit. Then the pan discharge can dump outside the foundation next to the
regular condensate drain.
I have been looking for a float switch appropriate for this application and
have had no success in identifying a part. The question I put to this group
is: Can anyone give me a manufacturer and part number for a float switch
which will work here? I believe the requirements for the switch are that it
be capable of detecting a water level of 1 inch or less, and that the
contacts be normally closed (open on high level) with a contact rating of
0.5A at 24V.
Answer:
Your looking in all of the wrong places if you can't find one
exactly as you stated. These float switches are very common at any air
conditioning warehouse. You can get a 100 different brands which are all
about the same design and shape. www.granger.com , Johnson supply , Johnston
supply , and I think I saw them also at walmarts used as a fill switch
on a bird bath pool. Go to any supplier of air condition equipment and they
will have them by the bunches
The other alternative is to have the emergency drain line drain somewhere else
that is very conspicuous like a garage, or basement, or an eve above another
window. Screw the inspector. Call him up and tell him you as the homeowner
doesn't want a drain line above your front window. That is ridiculous that an
inspector would specify putting an ugly drain in the front of your house.
