News

Abstract

The 2024 Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC) and Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) define, for the first time, how an HVAC condensate trap is to perform. The codes give three choices for trap designs when more than one appliance is connected to a central drain line. For a single appliance drain line connecting to an approved final drain point the manufacturer of the AC equipment must furnish all details of the trap design and drain-line design/layout. If the manufacturer does not supply complete details, then the installation must adhere to the three choices given for multiple drain lines connecting to a common waste pipe.

The HVAC Jerks speak with Connie Loughhead, President of Des Champs Technologies. A conversation about the origins of the HVAC Air-Trap, how the Air-Traps operate and the many resulting benefits. An in-depth discussion and analysis of the Air-Trap.

https://thehvacjerks.libsyn.com/5-28-an-air-trap-to-the-rescue

We have some exciting news!  Two things have occurred over the past few months. UMC code changes when it comes to condensate waste and drains, which includes traps. The ICC completed an evaluation of the HVAC Air-Trap against the IAPMO Standard 2018 IGC -196 – Condensate Traps and Overflow Switches for Air Conditioning Systems and certified the product to meet IMC, IRC, and UMC codes back to 2009 to currently published codes . . .

We speak to Connie Loughhead, President at Des Champs Technologies. We discuss the waterless HVAC Air Trap, condensate drainage codes and we also touch on the added energy consumption running dry on traps.

A video collage of various HVAC Air-Trap installations over the years.

Check out the PBS segment on the HVAC Air-Trap that will be airing in April 2022.

Introducing the new HVAC Air-Trap Product & Engineering Catalog. 72 pages covering Product Information, IOMs, Key Drawings, Maximum Pressures and Condensate Flows, Air Leakage Data and More!

Presentation by Nicholas H. Des Champs

"Prevent Unwanted Airflow Through Condensate Drain Lines All Year with HVAC Air-Trap"

AHR Expo 2022

Control Engineering  - May 21, 2020

In the New Products for Engineers Database by CFE Media and Technology, 5 of the top 6 products cover control of air or cleaning, since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11.

1. HVAC Air-Trap FCN-Series from Des Champs Technologies

PLP-Series
The first AC condensate trap to use air pressure developed by the AC fans to prevent conditioned air from entering or leaving the unit.

The PLP trap is the first AC condensate trap to use air pressure developed by the AC fans to prevent conditioned air from entering or leaving the unit. 

Requires less than 3 inches of height for up to 40 inches WC pressure instead of the 8 to 60 inches required for a standard P-Trap.

It’s Time to Reconsider the Use of P-Traps for HVAC Condensate Removal

A Comprehensive Guide to HVAC Condensate Removal

By Nicholas H. Des Champs, Ph.D., PE, ASHRAE Fellow

Available for Viewing and Download Here