How to Troubleshoot a Condensate Pump

[@Know-How-Now]

There are hundreds of videos at Know How Now, subscribe so you can always find the channel…. It’s free. I always respect your time and do my best to keep the videos brief, but informative. Check out the channel with this link: www.youtube.com/@Know-How-Now/videos

[@soundminion9283]

Thank you for this! Boring story short - this video just saved me $100 HVAC service call, and a tech’s valuable time to do something really basic. 5 years later and it’s still paying it forward 💪👍

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome! Way to go on saving yourself some money. If you haven't already done it, click on the channel name to see all of the videos. I do my best to make every one high quality.

[@buzzcutt697]

Excellent video! I had the infamous puddle of water running form the furnace. I'm sure you saved me hundreds of dollars in service costs by explaining this unit. You have a nice, clear manner of information delivery. Turned out I had a clogged pipe in the PVC running to the condensate pump. Cleared that out and was back in business. Also cleaned this unit which I had not done in 14 years. Thank you!!

[@Know-How-Now]

Thanks for compliments and taking the time to comment. I enjoy hearing that the videos are helpful. Please consider supporting the channel and subscribe. It's free and it will allow me to make more videos.

[@jpozenel]

Just had mine replaced today. No noticeable puddles though. The air is working great now. It took quite some time for the technician to diagnose it though. He kept pushing the idea that my thermostat was the problem but I nicely told him that I thought it wasn't. It all worked out in the end.

[@lydiarice3713]

I am so grateful for the clear explanation of how it works. When I discovered a puddle and looked closer, I saw that the inlet tubes were not placed in the pump. It seems it has been on without water and I fear I must replace it. But going forward I know how to make sure it is properly installed and maintained.

[@symbiotezilla12345]

OMG I LOVE THIS LADY SO MUCH. Good for nothing repairmen were trying to get us to replace the entire freaking motor and here i was trying to troubleshoot myself all sorts of things for 6 hours.. Lo and behold this video shines light on why my whole central HVAC just would NOT turn on and would keep tripping the breaker. After taking apart the pump and cleaning it after 5 years it was DISGUSTING and filled with thick films of sediment. Now it’s thankfully up and running thank God

[@kevinb7551]

Great work❤. thanks for the full run down, with just the right amount of detail. Really a refreshing video, simple, sweet, and no salesman!🎉

[@Know-How-Now]

Thanks for the compliment, that's exactly what I aim for. I'm still old school and not promoting any products, though it's getting harder to be able to put up this type of video. A few bucks via super thanks is always appreciated.

[@ThatsPie]

We’re getting up to a 110 heat index today and my outside blower stopped spinning. Your video helped me discover that my condensation pump failed and was filled with water. Thank you from me and my cats, I was able to siphon the water out and get some cool air in the house again! Now to replace it…

[@Know-How-Now]

It's my pleasure to help. Stay cool!

[@seuncassieayeni1036]

Very well done! Thank you. I woke up this morning to water sprayed all over the outside of the furnace. With your breakdown of the operation mechanism, I can now see that it is the one-way check valve that broke. Now I need to go find one. Thank you.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome. I hope the repair went smoothly.

[@borissecluna5782]

In a very short time you provided a great deal of valuable information about the workings of a condensate pump. Thank you.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Boris. Thank you for the feed back.... that's exactly what I am trying to accomplish. We are busy people, I don't want to waste anyone's time.

[@too_many_hobbies]

Thank you for this video. It was clear and concise and it actually saved me money. I had already called the home warranty company and was waiting for a reply when I took another look athis video and decided to give it another go. I was able to take the pump apart, cleaned everything and got it hooked up again. My AC is working like a champ now and I got my $75 refunded to me.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome. Way to go on making the successful repair and saving some money.

[@OhDannyBoyy1979]

I very rarely leave a review or comment, but your video was short and chocked full of useful information that anyone could digest. Thank you from a seasoned maintenance technician. 😊👍

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Daniel. I do my best to make high quality videos. Thanks for the compliment.

[@dragonweight3099]

This video was incredibly helpful. I love how you even listed the tools you use, and I was lucky that I have the same model of pump that you are talking about. I love the speed at which you speak and how clearly you show what you are doing (in all of your videos). I'm not subscribed to many channels, but I'm a lifer for yours! I've started coming here first if I need tips for home repairs. Thank you!

[@Know-How-Now]

Thank you for the kind note and subscribing to the channel. Welcome to Know How Now.

[@seannudd8846]

Thanks for the vid! My condensing pump wasn’t running after our boiler system leaked. Turn out I just needed to take the top cover off and play with the bobber/limit switch to get it back on track. I was planning on calling HVAC but this video and another on here let me do it myself. Probably saved me a couple hundred bucks!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome. It's my pleasure to help.

[@OregonAmbassador]

Superb resource, thank you. I have confidence now to take on the job. And I enjoyed your Jack Daniel's mug!

[@doubledvideo]

My condensate pump keeps going on for 3 seconds, then shuts off and then comes back on for 3 seconds about 15-20 seconds later...and over and over. I have moved the PVC pipe to a large 5 gallon pale while I am running my AC until I can get around to conducting some of the tips in this video. I will follow up if any of the tips worked. Great video! I just subscribed. 5 days into being a first time home buyer and i've done more projects that I expected. Edit: tips on the video worked perfectly! Pump is back up and running!!!

[@Know-How-Now]

Welcome to Know How Now. Thanks for subscribing. Congratulations on the purchase of your first home.

[@doubledvideo]

@@Know-How-Now your tips worked like a charm! Thank you!!

[@Know-How-Now]

Great! You are welcome.

[@lisadioguardi5742]

Mine was making a loud humming sound, when I examined it the hose felt kinked. I lifted it to see if the hose was pinched shut, a few seconds later the humming stopped. I'm not sure what was wrong, but thanks for describing the unit enough to understand what I was looking for.

[@MyraBaker-p5k]

Great video spoken with a clear voice. Very efficient

[@Know-How-Now]

Thanks for the compliment. I try to keep the videos short, but informative. Have a great day.

[@christinamaffia7378]

So well explained! I watched a few videos before yours that were not as detailed. Appreciate this. Thank you so much

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Christina. I try make quality videos.

[@courtneymorton4043]

You did an excellent job of explaining that. However, I'm too scared to try an troubleshoot this myself.

[@MargoBell-z3w]

Thank you sooo much. This was the most informative video I've watched yet. You have saved me alot of money in just a few minutes. You are amazing.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, it's my pleasure to help. Have a great day.

[@ngumbo]

Know How Now, thanks for the video. This is the first time I've had to deal with the condensate pump, and your video was like a college course. Great work!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome. Thank you for the compliment!

[@affinityhm]

Thank you soooo much. Just fixed our AC with this video. I had no idea and you perfectly guided my troubleshooting. It was simply the one way valve clogged in my case. You just saved me money and helped us all sleep well tonight!!!! Great job.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, thank you for taking the time to comment. Way to go on being resourceful and saving yourself some money! As many others have done, please consider supporting the channel and subscribe. It's free and you will always be able to find over 200 videos on the channel (If you don't want to subscribe, check out the videos by clicking on the channel name). They are organized by playlist.

[@silentcow3483]

Your video was a great help.. I had no clue what this was and ours is dripping from the back corner.. Thank you for posting this.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome. It makes my day to hear the video has been helpful.

[@cbinwindsor]

Great video. Thanks for sharing. It should be noted that the switches can be replaced on a little giant pump. A whole new pumps is not always necessary.

[@Know-How-Now]

Thanks for pointing that out, Christopher. For anyone interested here is a link to Little Giant's parts page: little-giantpump.com/little_giant_condensate_pump_parts_.html

[@dannycragel9686]

Rattling the overflow switch worked! Thank u!!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome! If you have to keep rattling it to make it work, it likely needs to be replaced.

[@williamthompson9969]

I really enjoyed your video. You must be a genius . Only a really smart person can explain something new to an idiot like me and have me understand it. All great teachers simply complex ideas into small easily understood ideas. You are an excellent teacher. Again great video and a great teacher. Thanks

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome. No genius here, just a lot of persistence and I like to understand how things work. Thanks for the kind words.

[@fayesortor7117]

Thank you!! It just needed the screwdriver handle whack!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome!

[@helenachase5627]

Thank you ! I think mine is crude up. It only pushes a little water when run without tubes. I shook it and the fountain went higher. I'll give it a good clean . I ordered another one anyway . 37.00 scratch and dent so no big deal ! Thanks again

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Helena. Mine had a bad micro switch. If I remember correctly, it would have taken hours to hunt down the correct switch. I just bought another pump for the switch & spare parts.

[@schoon5m]

This video was beautifully clear and concise and helped a lot... thanks.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Mike. Thank you for the kind words. Please consider supporting the channel and subscribe. It's free and it will allow me to add more videos.

[@ncmathura]

This is a very well explained video. thank you

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Neil. Thanks for commenting.

[@susanbeane2795]

Great Great video!! My problem is the pump is running non stop and the red light is on on top of the pump I unplugged it and plugged it back in but it went right back to running

[@Know-How-Now]

I'm not familiar with every make/model/ brand pump. You might try finding the make/model number tag. Then go online to find the manual on the manufacturer's website. It will likely tell you what the red light means.

[@westonb.9]

Wow you have replied to every comment! I wanna see if this gets a reply 4 years later

[@Know-How-Now]

I still read the comments and continue to do my best to make good quality videos. Unfortunately, KZbin doesn't always reward short and to the point videos by putting them on the first search page.

[@keithcring8011]

Excellent video

[@SpankSandwitch99]

Thanks for the explanation. Wasn't sure why my air conditioning wasn't turning on. Thankfully it's not overflowing, and pushing down on the second floater connected to the wiring triggers the a.c. unit, but now I need to figure out why it's not getting rid of the water it collected. 👍🏼

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome.

[@DavidBentleyMiller]

Thank you for the wonderfully done video. Just what I needed!!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, David. That's great, you were able to use the video to solve your problem!

[@coastalcleaningandmaintena2884]

Had a small flood and your vid saved my bacon. Just landlords lack of maintenance and i fix everything and he never pays me and wants me to teach him. Like i dont think so. My 30 years as a contractor i feel all my work is not reciprocated whatsoever. Anyhow thanks bunch check valve totally plugged and impeller must of had 300 little stones in it. And the box was just pure rust. Good cleaning and now my suite isnt flooding at least. I love helping ppl in need or get ripped off by bad handymen etc. but this landlord from punjab is a millionaire. And im permanently disabled but can work a couple hours a day and do all my jobs like their my own. But he jacked the rent so high i live on 400 per Month. CANADIAN!!! Sorry for the long winded replies it's just in this economy you have to save when u can. If your a multi millionaire then sure drop it at the ferrari shop and say fix it. I still wouldnt but everybody's different

[@coastalcleaningandmaintena2884]

Anyhow you have a new subscriber. Beautifully done i thought.

[@Know-How-Now]

Sorry to hear that you are disabled and have a crumby landlord. I've learned to size up any home repairs and find that with common sense and a little patience I can do most of them. As a female, I am often looked at as an easy mark, though there are some wonderful people out there. My auto mechanic is the best. I never have to doubt the quality of work or the fairness of the charge for the work. Thanks for subscribing and the kind words.

[@coastalcleaningandmaintena2884]

@@Know-How-Now totally i flipped 9 houses using simple know how. Watching the old skool renovation shows. I knew i was handy so i bought a great bones house that needed the basics. Paint in and out , carpets gone, new countertops and cabinets then 2 bathrooms. I did it with 1 helper who knew nothing. It took me 6 weeks from possession day to completion day. Realtor sold in 7 days for a profit of 84k. I spent 18k in materials. So in 7 weeks my partner (the money man) got 42k and me as well. After. That i was hooked. Now my motto is "Carpets n Paint, Brain surgery it ain't) if you wanna try something new take the risk cause it can pay off huge. Pumps working great and all is well again. It does need a new check valve tho. Its on its way. I cant believe how much water that furnace puts off. Its enough for it to run everytime it comes on. Its a huge house but not moist or anything. Told him to get a duct cleaning and furnace checkup. But he just bought a new filter instead. Lol thanks again

[@coastalcleaningandmaintena2884]

@@Know-How-Now nope my mechanic is better. Im certified myself but cant get under them anymore. Anybow i just got my upper and lower ball joints done today. I always buy my own parts cause you save about 30% and i know im not getting a jobber pos that will need replacing in a year. So 2.5 hours labor normal bill 350.00 usd. ace auto 106 usd. All these whiners say every body rip off. I tell them every city or town has an honest mechanic. Just have to know a small amount of info and actually stay and watch them. Anyhow you know the deal it sounds like. Women man shouldnt matter. There was more girls in my schooling than guys. And heres a tip folks. Never ever go to the dealer after your warranty is up. Go to 3 or 4 places most will quote free. Take said quote look at parts and see if they are gouging. And dont go in a shop and say i cant even put on a spare tire. Fake it google the problem. Go in with confidence and act like you know what your talking about.

[@Know-How-Now]

I was a Realtor for a while. Paint and carpet go a long way. Most people can't see how some cosmetic work can totally change a home. Best wishes for your hard work.

[@Chimpware]

Excellent video - really well done.

[@dylanpainter9290]

You are the best. No way I was figuring that out without some help

[@Know-How-Now]

It's my pleasure to help, Dylan. It's nice to hear from you, have a great day.

[@ericjameslyman]

Thank you for this video!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Eric!

[@jokerbrand1987]

buddy that was the most clear cut informative video

[@Know-How-Now]

Thanks for the compliment, I try to make quality videos.

[@DomLucarelli45]

Thanks for the video! I was able to get pump going again just replacing check valve--saved time and $$! Great video!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome. Thanks to taking the time to comment, it always makes my day to hear the video has been helpful. Have a great day.

[@HaxrChick]

thank you!

[@Know-How-Now]

You're welcome!

[@ticktock2320]

Great video

[@nabilsufyan2323]

Thank you so much you were a great help and if it wasn’t for this video I would’ve paid someone to come fix my pump maybe cost me Arm and a leg for some thing you taught me in two seconds thank you so much again my pump worked because I followed instructions from your video your video

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Nabil. It's my pleasure to help.

[@becomeabettergolfer]

After cleaning the pump I discovered my actual problem. If your pump is continuously running if you pull the hose from the pump little or no water should come out. When I pulled my hose I got sprayed in the face. Come to find out the hose over time became pinched stopping the water from flowing. Causing the pump to continue to run. Might want to check that before you start making repairs.

[@Know-How-Now]

Thank you for taking the time to comment, it's contributions like yours that add to the value of the videos. Sorry to hear you got a free shower.

[@JonathanDanielBowen]

I learned something… Thanks.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Jonathan. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@ronaldreagan2035]

You are great thank you!!

[@Know-How-Now]

You're welcome!

[@NestorLedon]

Wonderful video, thank you!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome!

[@brenonoo3615]

Great advice!

[@dartherapist]

Very good video. 👍

[@islandman5434]

Well done and informative keep up the good work

[@Know-How-Now]

Thanks, will do!

[@haigjamgochian2061]

Thank you for the video, my problem is that the pump works all the time, non-stop weather the AC is on or not. Any tips to fix are greatly appreciated.

[@Know-How-Now]

I check to see if the float is stuck or the microswitch is bad.

[@haigjamgochian2061]

@@Know-How-Now I appreciate your quick response

[@MzLeci]

Thank you!! This video is very helpful!!!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, it's my pleasure to help.

[@jojodancerfd43]

Outstanding video!!!! Looked this up because I just bought this pump. I have it connected to an ice maker. The pump will not activate unless I have it tilted a little (small board under one end) Once the pump is activated, it works like a champ. Without tilting it, the pump doesn’t activate and water pores out onto the floor. An clue as to why I have to tilt it?

[@Know-How-Now]

Without being there and doing some testing, I can't give you a good diagnosis. I would return the pump and get a new one, it sounds like it is defective. A lot of stores have a generous return policy, if that doesn't work, then go for a warranty replacement from the manufacturer.

[@kneel-kr3ml]

Hello, I have a little giant 15 series much like the one in your video. I live in a northern climate so it goes off and runs frequently! Recently I have noticed that it now seems to want to run the motor for about a second every 12 seconds. If the sound of the pump wasn’t annoying to begin with then this constant whirring every 12 seconds is! Other than that it seems to work just fine. What would be causing such a regular sound?

[@Know-How-Now]

Check to see if it is running dry. That might be the noise you are hearing. Running the pump without water in the reservoir is not good for it. You'll need to figure out why. Microswitch problem? Float?

[@hrylegzhrylegz4512]

Thank you for the video!!! My condensate pump valve broke in half and therefore water all on the floor. 😡 Do you know how to remove the piece that's still screwed in? Or do I need to just purchase a new pump?

[@shannonkeen4289]

Hello, great video! can anyone tell me if it would be safe to put CLR into the pump reservoir? My plastic drain tube is pretty gunked up, but it is ran through my basement ceiling and outside, making it difficult to replace.

[@IMARBAN]

Thanks for the Video Well Done and Well Explained... I loved it❤✌❤

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Carmelo. Thank you for watching the video and the kind words. There are now over 200 how to/repair videos on the channel. If you find yourself with some free time, check out the channel.

[@tonyc4776]

Ty

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Tony.

[@scottsenteries]

Great video. I poured the water in to see if the pump was running. It's running great but here's the problem which I didn't see listed: The check valve/tube is spraying water. I don't know if this is because of the check valve, or if it would be the tube is damaged or loose? No water is getting up the tube, and I really can't tell where the water is coming from: Where the tube meets the valve or if it's shooting from around the valve?

[@Know-How-Now]

It sounds like something is clogged. Try removing the tube and running the pump, if water is coming out of the check valve, the the tube is clogged. If the problem is still happening, then maybe the check valve is clogged.

[@benjaminvalencia2357]

can the float be adjusted? Mine only works when the float is all the way up then shuts off as soon as lowers slightly leaving disgusting water to stagnate.

[@Know-How-Now]

The Little Giant pump in the video has no float adjustment.... there is just a micro switch. If yours has a micro switch with a metal arm on it, maybe someone bent the arm on the micro switch?

[@ToddAndelin]

Excellent video.... now heading to the how the cleaning video you mentioned!

[@Know-How-Now]

Thanks for the compliment and for watching the videos!

[@billkincer4256]

I woke up this morning and the condensation pump was running constantly. I noticed that my water lines were froze as well. I went down to investigate and found out that the wind had blown my front door wide open. I got it shut got the water lines to work again but the pump is constantly running and a red light is lit. Didn't have any problems with it until it got really really cold.

[@joannag4177]

Many thanks for this great and informative video! I was able to replace my old hardwired VCMA-15ULS with a VCMA-20ULS easily and without any problems whatsoever. You saved me a good couple of hundred dollars in a service call so the least I could do in return is subscribe, and mention your channel in my Amazon review of the pump :)

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Joanna. Thank you for supporting the channel by subscribing & giving it a mention in your review.

[@kevinhaberlin83]

Great video. Thanks for the clear info 👍🏼

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Kevin. Thank you for the compliment. There are now over 200 how to/repair videos on the channel that are organized by playlist, you can check them out by clicking on the channel name. As many others have done, please consider subscribing, it's free and you will easily be able to find the videos. Thanks for watching!

[@cicilg]

Thank you so much!

[@Know-How-Now]

You're welcome, Clara!

[@theodoreliscinski3587]

Very helpful!

[@Know-How-Now]

I try to make quality videos. It's nice to hear from you, Theodore. Have a great day.

[@hardstylemexmendez1844]

amazing video thak you soooo much👌

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome.

[@ccampau]

Screwdriver knock worked!

[@ajdevito1]

Thanks Jodi Foster! Very helpful! Lol sounds just like her!!!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome.... from Jodi Foster. lol!

[@jb3702]

Haha!! Yes!

[@dsnorcalfan]

Is it normal for condensate pump to run a lot in the winter? When it gets below freezing here, I notice the pump runs a lot and the water drops into my basement sink. I have the humidity set at 30%

[@Know-How-Now]

Yes, it's likely normal. The furnace is creating condensation when it is running.

[@dsnorcalfan]

@@Know-How-Now Gotcha, any idea on what I can do with that extra water instead of letting it go to waste? Is it clean water?

[@Know-How-Now]

The water is a byproduct of combustion. It's acidic.

[@AmigoAzul]

Helped out big time! Thank you

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Alex!

[@mh5454]

Very good video. Question: If I choose to NOT connect the safety switch , will it cause any problem? Just wire nut the ends of the two wires?

[@Know-How-Now]

If the pump is next to a floor drain or at a location where if it overflows it won't cause water damage you can get by without connecting the safety switch. Codes may require you to connect it. I'll put a link below for some code guidance. If the switch was connected to your furnace and there are only two wires coming from the furnace, then you'll need to wire nut the two wires from the furnace together to "jump out" the switch. You may be violating a code if the switch was connected. inspectapedia.com/aircond/Condensate_Drains.php

[@mh5454]

@@Know-How-Now Thanks and sorry I wasnt clearer. My furnace/AC never has had a safety switch but I had to replace the pump. So I thought there might be current in the two safety switch wires FROM the pump. So I had better cap them off, Right?

[@Know-How-Now]

The safety switch is just a set of "dry" contacts, no voltage or current is present. It doesn't hurt to cap them off and tuck them away.

[@kevinoreilly9224]

Great video. Thanks

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Kevin. As many others have done, please support the channel and subscribe. It's free and it will allow me to continue to add more videos.

[@ruthmariesub]

Thank you. For all you DIYers, careful tightening the check valve. Mine snapped off. The part is not readily available at the big boxes.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome, Ruth. Thank you for taking the time to caution other viewers about the possible pitfall. Were you able to find a replacement check valve?

[@ruthmariesub]

Know How Now - I did find one on Amazon. 6 bucks, better than a whole new pump. Thanks for doing this video, it was very helpful.

[@Know-How-Now]

It's good to know replacement check valves are available at a reasonable price. Please consider supporting the channel and subscribe and pass it along to friends. Sadly, recently, KZbin has stopped promoting a lot of my videos. I suspect because they are too short.

[@panman1224]

Excellent! Thank you.

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome!

[@rebeccahrycenko6693]

Great know-how videos! Can you tell me if the two shut off wires have to be connected to the furnace/ac unit or can they just be left unhooked?

[@Know-How-Now]

The shut off wires don't have to be connected. The condensate pump in the video is located near a floor drain, so if the pump fails and overflows, it's not a major concern. If a condensate pump is located in a place where you don't want water overflowing, then to prevent water damage, it's a good idea to shut the AC/Heat down if the pump fails.

[@rebeccahrycenko6693]

Thank you! I will plan on someone hooking up the wires for me. I already found out the hard way that a pump that doesn't shut off doesn't mix well with laminate flooring...not my doing :/

[@rew4640]

Very helpful thank you very much!!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome!

[@ishmael8291]

Good to know 😅 I accidentally pushed the test feature on the pump too long without water and I got smoke coming out if the motor

[@ishmael8291]

Does this mean my pump is messed up ?

[@Know-How-Now]

Letting out the magic smoke is usually not a good sign. Put some water in it and test it out... hopefully it still works.

[@marylawson6060]

Great video. I had some water under my pump so wiped it up. HVAC guy said pump was sweating since we have humidity right now? ??? Right or wrong pump is almost 11 yo. Tube also has a place doesn't look good. Help. And evaporating coil has leak someplace. Replace coil or entire unit?

[@Know-How-Now]

Hi Mary, without going through the troubleshooting process as described in the video, I can't determine if your pump is bad. If it has never sweated in the past 11 years, and it is now "sweating" (and nothing else has changed) then you may want to go through the troubleshooting step in the video. As for the evaporating coil leak, you may want to get a few estimates on the cost to replace it vs replacing the unit.

[@marylawson6060]

@@Know-How-Now Appreciate your input and answering my questions. Warranty ran out last August go figure. I just want to make the right decision. In my 70's so thanks for a great video. Wish you were closer 😃 Take care.

[@Know-How-Now]

Sorry I can't give you a more exact answer. Ask friends and neighbors for references for reputable HVAC contractors. Get quotes and compare prices and advice on replacing vs repair. If you have a HVAC company you use, you will likely get the most honest answer from the service tech. There are good honest people out there, you just have to find them.

[@erwingopez]

That was very helpful but I don't have a Jack Daniels mug, will a Johnnie Walker mug work?

[@Know-How-Now]

I think Johnnie Walker will work too. LOL!

[@Marlin365]

Great video. I have the puddle of water below the furnace. Took my condensate pump off, and when I activate the safety switch, the water pumps out, but nothing happens when I raise the main float. Could the wiring be set up incorrectly when it was originally installed. Tried tapping the micro switch on the main float, but nothing happens. It's going to be 90 deg here today, so temporarily I have a condensate "bucket" set up. Any ideas? Meanwhile I am cleaning the pump out.

[@Know-How-Now]

I'll presume that you have a Little Giant pump as shown in the video and that the pump has been in place and working correctly for a few years. Let me know if this is not correct. Do you have wiring from your AC/heat system to the safety switch? I have an additional video that shows how the pump works.... it has more detail about the switches: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6i7Y36OntmEmKM After you clean the pump and put it back in place. Retest it. If it does not run when you fill the reservoir with water. Turn power off to the pump & put a wire jumper across the two contacts on the switch for the big float. A jumper with alligator clips on either end is the safest thing to use. BE CAREFUL! If you don't have that kind of jumper use a piece of solid 12 or 14 gauge wire(with the ends stripped & insulation in the middle- hold onto the insulation part) and touch it across the switch contacts. Turn power on to the pump. It should run when there is a jumper bypassing the switch. If it does not run, then you have a problem with the pump motor. If the motor or the switch is bad, it may be easiest to buy a new pump (same model), they are not super expensive. You'll have space parts.

[@michellerenee5028]

Should the pump reservoir be emptying completely? There is a lot of water staying in there about 1 inch from the hole. Also I am not hearing any water going down the bathtub drain like it use to either?

[@Know-How-Now]

If I understand correctly, the water is about 1 inch from the top of the reservoir. If that is true,It sounds like your pump is not working. It should empty almost all of the water from the reservoir. I also have a video that explains how the pump works: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6i7Y36OntmEmKM

[@mac123459]

I have a magnet float and it is set to low how would I adjust the pump to come on sooner. Ac unit shuts down until I take top off and lift float up. Mac

[@Know-How-Now]

Without seeing/knowing the specifics about your pump, it is hard to answer your question. I would suggest getting the make/model number from the tag on your pump. Go to the manufacturer's website and down load the installation instructions. There is likely a procedure to adjust the magnet/float.

[@noskillnochill]

nice video, thanks so much!

[@Know-How-Now]

You are welcome!

[@c0pyimitati0n]

So I poured water into the pump and it started coming out of the side of the HVAC unit! (Where the top part is screwed onto the base)

[@ThriftDiving]

Thanks for this video. My condensate pump line is completely full but the reservoir is dry. Not sure what that means....?

[@Know-How-Now]

Try adding water to the reservoir and watch what happens. If it pumps the water out, your pump is working correctly.

[@arthurr8670]

A little old now to answer but that is normal behavior. Water is held in the line so it doesn't drain back into the pump tank. This lets the pump to remove more water, increasing how much new water is needed before it turns on, which then also means you save electricity. In the little black piece that the hose connects to in this video, is a check valve.

[@campagnol1]

Thank you very much for this video. I had a continuous grating noise so I replaced the pump but not the plastic drain pipe that goes up somewhere into my loft. Guess what? as soon as the reservoir was full and the pump got into action I got the grating noise again! I am pretty sure that it is louder than before. (on both pumps) and not operating normally. Assuming that the new pump is in good working order, it must be the water pipe line maybe kinked or something? I am not confident in pulling it out as I don't know where the line goes, so far there is no leak but I am preparing to let this house out as I am moving into to my GF's. Has anyone got any advice on how to approach this?

[@Know-How-Now]

Hey Colin, that's odd you have both a new & and old pump making a grinding noise. Before you rip out the drain line, I would suggest that you connect a temporary drain line and see if the new pump is still grinding. Test it by pouring water into it. Usually, the grinding noise would be caused by running the pump dry (not good for the pump). If it is grinding with water in the reservoir, then I'd contact Little Giant, maybe you got a defective pump or if you still have the receipt, return it to the retailer.

[@ChunkyChest]

Our pump is running constantly after we recently had the floors worked on in the vicinity above the pump. I plugged it out, is there anything I can do to stop it running constantly?

[@Know-How-Now]

Without being there to troubleshoot it, I cannot diagnose the problem. I would have to go through the steps in the video.

[@88carp8it]

Is it normal to have water remaining in the discharge tubing after the pump runs? Water comes out, but not all of it. I can't tell if there is a siphon issue... pump 3/8" tubing is in attic, goes up from little giant then dives down a floor to a PVC stand pipe with air break. I can see bubbles in the tubing down there and at the pump discharge. Check valve seems to work because pump isn't always running... ideas?

[@88carp8it]

Issue has become the PVC tubing is sweating in the walls, since it keeps water in it, and damaging ceiling and plaster! Does that even sound right possible...

[@Know-How-Now]

If it's not a new installation, and it is known that the system did work correctly, then it doesn't seem likely to be condensation. I know that mice will chew through plastic hoses that supply water to a refrigerator ice maker/water dispenser. Squirrels will check plastic too. You could try plugging one end of the tube & pressure test it to see if it looses air.

[@jennietull]

My ac shuts off because the pump gets filled. But if I unplug the pump and plug it back in it drains. Any thoughts? Thanks!

[@Know-How-Now]

If it's the same pump as in the video, there is no circuit board, so no rebooting of any computer chip. Maybe the float (gunked up inside) or microswitch is sticking? You can try filling it with water and gently tapping the case of the pump to see if it starts up.

[@jennietull]

Thanks so much for responding! I will try it!

[@joshuakallenberger915]

I have a Diversitech Floatless pump and i keep getting the high level alarm when it is empty and will try to continue pumping and make an aweful sound. Any ideas? The pump is about a year old.

[@Know-How-Now]

I'd guess the awful noise is the pump is running dry... not a good thing. It is still likely under warranty. Call Diversitech... they might send you a new pump.

[@josephyavicoli3545]

where do you get a new float switch? I cant seem to find one online.

[@Know-How-Now]

Did you try the manufacturer's web site? Sometimes they use a unique part. You might try giving them a call.

[@lucaswilson9032]

Whenever my furnace turns on I hear a drip in the same spot in the vent in the ceiling . Is it possible it has something to do with condensation pump ?

[@Know-How-Now]

I suppose the drain tube for the condensate pump could be in that area.

[@alishamillay2946]

I have this exact same pump

[@LightSaberPro]

Hi. I just replaced my condensate pump, it did not come with a safety switch, but my old pump had one so I placed the old switch in the empty compartment of the new one. All the wiring seemed fine. I turned on the pump and added water into it. It turned on and water began to drain out. It seemed like it was working fine. However, the pump is not turning off. Isn't the pump supposed to turn off after draining the water to a certain level? Any advice is greatly appreciated, thank you. Also, I did notice some water leaking out of where the check valve connects to the vinyl tube and it appears that I need to ensure a better connection. Could that possibly be the issue?

[@Know-How-Now]

It sounds like you could have two problems. The leaky connection at the check/valve vinyl tube needs to be fixed. You are correct, the pump is supposed to turn off when the water level drops low enough for the float to mechanically trip the switch. To eliminate the possibility of the two problems being related, put a temporary hose from the pump into a bucket/drain. Put water in the pump and see if it works correctly. Do not run the pump without water in the reservoir - you could damage the pump. If it still does not stop when the water level drops, you have a float problem or a bad switch. Make sure the lever on the micro switch did not get bent. If the pump works properly, then you'll need to look at the drain line. I have another video that shows how these pumps work, it may be helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6i7Y36OntmEmKM What was the problem with the old pump?

[@LightSaberPro]

Thank you for getting back so soon. Oddly enough, the old pump actually had the same issue. It would cut on and drain water out, but then it would not turn off. Also, after running the new pump a while, a bunch of water mixed with sludge emptied out of the line. Do you think that a clogged drain line is the issue rather than the pump?

[@Know-How-Now]

Sounds like a clogged drain line. You could try running some bleach or bleach/water mix through it and then some water to flush out the bleach.

[@LightSaberPro]

Yes, that is exactly what the issue was. We first took a two-handed air pump and blasted out as much gunk as we could (it took about 25 good pumps.) We attached the pump nozzle to the drain tube end that connects to the check valve on the condensate pump. We then made a mixture of water and vinegar (I'd say about 3/4 water) and poured it into the pump. The pump turned and drained the water and vinegar solution out, and then shut off once it finished the cycle, exactly like it is supposed to. I placed a small adjustable clamp on the drain hose near where it meets the check valve on the pump, and that seems to help stop the leak significantly (it is a very slow one now). However, I might try to add some plumber's tape on the check valve at some point to ensure that the leak is fully stopped. All the advice is greatly appreciated!

[@Know-How-Now]

It's great to hear that you resolved the problem. Thank you for taking the time to write a detailed description about how you cleared the clogged line. I'm sure that it will be helpful to other viewers. In retrospect perhaps I should have spent some time on clogged drain lines, though if the video is too long, many people will not watch it.

[@Brian-lh7jj]

Hi there, this question is unrelated to this but I wanted to ask you ... Regarding my outside water tap .. every time we use it, it rattles, vibrates and makes noise inside the house. What can I do to solve this annoying problem? Thank you

[@Know-How-Now]

A loose washer can cause vibration. I have a video that shows how to replace the washer in an outdoor faucet. If there is a shut off valve for the faucet (not a ball valve), it also has a washer. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2PTmnyfZtZ2erc

[@Brian-lh7jj]

@@Know-How-Now Thank you for the info .. but it seems my problem is more than just a washer. It just seems like the pipes are vibrating, loud and noisy in the house when turning it on. But thx again for the advice.

[@Nenaprdivaj]

How often the pump run if is everything ok.... I can hear my pump run every time after the furnace turns off. Is that ok?

[@Know-How-Now]

It can vary a bit, but that does not sound unusual.

[@susanpatel5437]

pump is making noise as water is expelled. Any recommendations?

[@Know-How-Now]

The bearings could be failing or maybe the float or switch for the float isn't working properly and the pump is running dry.... running dry is not good for the pump.