High-efficiency, gas heating appliances (such as furnaces and water heaters) continue to rise in popularity as U.S. homeowners look to improve comfort indoors, reduce reliance on the power grid, and lower their home energy bills. In fact, if you look at the dollars and cents, the DOE estimates that these next-generation appliances will save Americans about $1.5 billion a year on utility bills, or roughly $50 a year per household on heating costs.
The benefits are clear, but there is a silent issue associated with these energy-efficient heating appliances that needs to be addressed: acidic condensate.
WHAT CAUSES CONDENSATE CORROSION FROM HIGH-EFFICIENCY FURNACES AND WATER HEATERS?
Acidic condensate is a byproduct of the combustion gases in high-efficiency, gas-fired heating appliances. Unlike HVAC condensate that rolls off the coils of an AC unit, acidic condensate is highly corrosive because it includes various acids from the combustion of natural gas (or propane). If discharged untreated, this residue can damage the plumbing, concrete foundation, floor drains, septic system, or wastewater system.
HOW DO YOU PREVENT CONDENSATE CORROSION FROM HIGH-EFFICIENCY FURNACES?
But there is a simple solution to the condensate corrosion issue. A product called a “condensate neutralizer” should be installed with the high-efficiency, gas furnace or water heater. A condensate neutralizer, like one from industry pioneer JJM®, is a filtration device purpose-built to raise the pH level of the acidic condensate (reducing its acidity) to a safe level before it’s discharged into the plumbing and wastewater systems. This must-have accessory will not only prevent the costly property damages we listed—it's also required by the plumbing code in most of the U.S.
CONDENSATE NEUTRALIZER INSTALLATION: DIY OR HIRE A PRO?
While some tasks can be performed by weekend warriors, condensate neutralizer installation is best left to the pros. JJM® strongly recommends that homeowners hire a licensed, qualified contractor or service technician. Hiring an trained, licensed pro (like a JJM® pH Power PRO™) to install the condensate neutralizer will help ensure lasting performance, effectiveness and protection. After all, condensate neutralizer installation and service requires training and knowledge of high-efficiency gas systems; best left up to the pros.
If the home heating equipment already has a condensate neutralizer installed, the industry pro can also perform condensate neutralizer service when he performs annual maintenance on their home heating system.
NEXT STEPS TO TREAT ACIDIC CONDENSATE AND IN TURN PREVENT CONDENSATE CORROSION
When it comes to condensate neutralizer installation, there’s no need to take the DIY route. Track down a pH Power PRO™ who can install the right JJM® solution for your home or service your JJM® condensate neutralizer to ensure it provides continued protection. pH Power PRO™s are trained residential HVAC and plumbing contractors who are qualified to install and/or service JJM® products. Search by your zip code to find a pH Power PRO™ near you. Or, you can go to phccweb.org to find a licensed, qualified contractor in your area.
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