Choosing the right condensate pump for a humidifier or HVAC system ensures reliable moisture removal, protects equipment, and helps maintain safe operation in homes and crawl spaces. The following selections are among the most popular, reliable models available on Amazon, offering a range of lift heights, flow rates, and features like overflow detection switches and durable construction. This guide highlights five suitable options and then provides a practical buying guide to assist you in selecting the best pump for your setup.
| Product | Brand | Flow / Lift (GPH / ft) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| VCMA-15ULST | Little Giant | 65 GPH | Overflow detection, 20 ft tubing |
| VCMA-20ULST | Little Giant | 80 GPH | Overflow detection, 20 ft tubing |
| AprilAire 4856 | AprilAire | — | Low-profile condensate pump kit for whole-house dehumidifiers |
| DiversiTech CP-22 | Diversitech | 22 ft lift | Removable check valve |
| Beckett BK171UL | Beckett | 17 ft lift | Automatic on/off operation, quiet |
The products listed here are chosen for their compatibility with humidifiers and HVAC condensate management, offering reliable pumping, straightforward installation, and features designed to prevent overflow and protect equipment. Each section provides a concise overview of the model, its strengths, and what to consider for installation in spaces ranging from utility rooms to crawl spaces.
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- Little Giant VCMA-15ULST Condensate Pump
- Little Giant VCMA-20ULST Condensate Pump
- Little Giant VCMA-15ULT (Tubing Included)
- Little Giant VCMA-65 GPH Condensate Pump (6-Foot Cord)
- Little Giant VCMA-20ULS Condensate Pump
- AprilAire 4856 Low Profile Condensate Pump
- DiversiTech CP-22 Series Condensate Pump
- Beckett BK171UL Condensate Pump
Little Giant VCMA-15ULST Condensate Pump
The Little Giant VCMA-15ULST is a compact 1/50 HP automatic condensate removal pump designed to automatically remove condensate produced by boilers, furnaces, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers. Its vertical switch reduces footprint, making it suitable for tight spaces. The pump features a thermally protected, fan-cooled motor rated at 115 volts, 60 Hz, with a 1.0 amp draw and a 60-watt consumption profile. Built to last, it uses an ABS tank and motor cover, a stainless steel motor shaft, and a thermally protected motor, capable of handling water up to 140°F (60°C). The model ships with 20 feet of tubing for flexible routing and is CSA certified for U.S. and Canadian standards, ensuring reliable performance in climate control systems.
Ideal for smaller humidification setups or apartments where space is at a premium, this pump offers dependable auto operation and a modest lift capacity aligned with modest condensate loads. Consider its tubing length and placement relative to the primary condensate source to maximize efficiency and minimize loop height.
Little Giant VCMA-20ULST Condensate Pump
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The VCMA-20ULST model increases capacity to 80 GPH and uses a 1/30 HP motor with a 1.5 amp, 93-watt rating at 115V. Like the smaller sibling, it features a vertical switch to minimize footprint and a thermally protected motor with a fan-cooled design. The ABS tank and volute shell, coupled with a stainless steel motor shaft, contribute to longevity, while its 140°F (60°C) water tolerance supports typical condensate temperatures encountered in HVAC and dehumidifier applications. The pump is CSA certified for U.S. and Canadian standards, and it includes 20 feet of tubing for convenient routing from the condensate source to an outdoor drain or remote location.
With higher flow than the 15ULST, this model suits mid-size condensate loads in homes with larger HVAC units or dehumidification needs. Ensure the discharge line is adequately sized and routed to prevent backflow or airlock issues at the point of discharge.
Little Giant VCMA-15ULT (Tubing Included)
The VCMA-15ULT is a compact, 1/50 HP condensate pump designed for automatic condensate removal with a tubing option included. The motor is thermally protected and powered by a 115V, 60 Hz supply with a 1 Amp draw and a 60-watt rating, and it uses a stainless steel shaft with an ABS tank and volute for durability. This model is CSA listed for both the United States and Canada. It is designed to handle condensate temperatures up to 140°F (60°C), making it suitable for typical condensate generated by high-efficiency furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers.
Without an integrated safety switch, this pump is ideal for installations where an external float switch or overflow sensor is already part of the system. It remains a compact choice for space-constrained installations while offering dependable automatic operation.
Little Giant VCMA-65 GPH Condensate Pump (6-Foot Cord)
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This VCMA-15UL model delivers 65 GPH and a 1/50 HP motor, with a 6-foot electrical cord for flexible placement. The design continues to emphasize a vertical switch to reduce footprint and a thermally protected, fan-cooled motor rated at 115V, 60 Hz, and 1.0 amp. The pump’s ABS tank, motor cover, and volute, along with the stainless steel shaft, reinforce durability for condensate removal in HVAC and dehumidifier applications. It is CSA certified for U.S. and Canadian standards and can handle water up to 140°F (60°C).
Consider this option when a slightly longer cord and a compact footprint are advantageous for your installation, and ensure the discharge line runs to an appropriate drain location to minimize backflow risks.
Little Giant VCMA-20ULS Condensate Pump
The VCMA-20ULS operates at 115V with an 80 GPH flow and a 1/30 HP motor. Its 1.5-amp draw and 93 watts of power come from a fan-cooled motor, producing a reliable condensate removal capability for mid to larger humidification and cooling systems. The unit uses an ABS tank, motor cover, and volute with a stainless steel shaft and a thermally protected motor, enabling operation up to 140°F (60°C). CSA certification ensures compatibility with U.S. and Canadian standards, and the pump includes a 6-foot cord for convenient installation. It is designed to mount easily in utility rooms or crawl spaces where a moderate lift is needed to reach the discharge location.
For installations requiring a longer discharge run or tighter scheduling of the condensate disposal, this model provides a balanced blend of capacity and compact form factor.
AprilAire 4856 Low Profile Condensate Pump
The AprilAire 4856 is a low-profile condensate pump kit designed for AprilAire Whole House Dehumidifier models (E070, E080, E100, E130, and others). The kit includes essential components such as a 20-foot drain tube, metal hang tab, plug protector, remote shutoff leads with insulated terminals, and inlet covers. This pump is optimized for automatic condensate removal from crawl spaces, basements, or remote outdoor disposal when a floor drain is not available, with the ability to move water up to 22 feet vertically. The device integrates with AprilAire systems to ensure smooth, maintenance-friendly operation in whole-house dehumidification scenarios.
When selecting a pump for AprilAire systems, compatibility with the specific dehumidifier model and proper routing to a suitable drainage point are crucial. This pump is a strong match for whole-house setups needing a dedicated, multi-component condensate solution.
DiversiTech CP-22 Series Condensate Pump
The DiversiTech CP-22 Series condensate pump is designed for HVAC/R applications with a 22-foot maximum lift. This 120V pump effectively expels condensate water from equipment, providing a robust condensate management solution within systems. The pump is built to handle typical condensate temperatures up to 160°F, ensuring compatibility with higher-temperature condensate produced by certain furnace or boiler configurations. Its design emphasizes reliable automatic operation and consistent drainage, reducing the risk of overflow and pooling near equipment installations.
For installers needing greater vertical discharge capability, the CP-22 offers a practical option with a standard 120V motor and a built-in expectation for dependable performance across various condensate loads.
Beckett BK171UL Condensate Pump
The Beckett BK171UL condensate pump provides automatic on/off operation to remove condensate produced by HVAC equipment, including air conditioners, furnaces, boilers, dehumidifiers, and high-efficiency oil or gas-fired furnaces. It is designed for condensate water temperatures up to 150°F and includes features like stainless steel mounting brackets, a lid-mounted bullseye level to verify installation, a lift-to-test tab for quick testing, and a twist-to-lock 3/8″ check valve for quick setup. The unit is designed for quiet operation thanks to a refined motor and rubber feet that reduce vibration and noise. The BK171UL is a practical choice when a robust, easy-to-install pump with reliable automatic operation is needed in a single-family home setup.
When evaluating Beckett’s offering, consider the required lift height, installation space, and whether a check valve and level indicators are important for your installation to ensure a smooth, quiet, and leak-free condensate removal solution.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Lift height (discharge distance): Choose a pump with a lift suitable for the vertical distance from the condensate source to the drain. Higher lifts require pumps rated for longer vertical discharge.
- Flow rate: For small humidifiers and compact units, lower GPH pumps are sufficient; larger HVAC systems may need higher GPH models to keep up with condensate production.
- Power and motor protection: Thermally protected motors reduce the risk of overheating in long runtimes. Look for fan-cooled designs in humid environments.
- Durability: ABS tanks with stainless steel shafts and robust motor housings improve longevity in damp spaces. CSA or UL listings provide additional safety assurance.
- Overflow protection: Overflow switches or external level controls help prevent water from backing up into equipment or spaces.
- Tubing and fittings: Ensure included tubing length and diameter match your installation, or plan for compatible replacements.
- Noise and vibration: Quiet operation is beneficial in living spaces or bedrooms above crawl spaces; rubber feet and proper mounting reduce noise.
- Compatibility and kit contents: Some pumps come as complete kits (including tubing, drain lines, and remote shutoffs). Verify what’s included before purchase.
- Installation environment: For crawl spaces, basements, or utility rooms, consider low-profile designs that minimize space usage and simplify routing.
- Maintenance: Look for accessible service points and manufacturer guidance on cleaning and checking the float or switch mechanism to ensure continuous performance.
Selecting the right condensate pump involves balancing lift height, flow rate, and system compatibility with installation constraints. The models above offer a mix of compact designs, higher-capacity options, and kits tailored for whole-house dehumidification or dedicated condensate management, allowing you to match a pump to your humidifier or HVAC setup while minimizing risk of overflow and equipment damage.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
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