Is it necessary to install a condensate neutralizer?

Bernasconi, a licensed Master Plumber and hydronics specialist, has been working in the HVAC industry for 35+ years and is well known in the industry for hydronics design and execution. With the onset of condensing boilers, furnaces and hot water heaters, the installation of a condensate neutralizer is now a mandatory requirement.

How is calcium carbonate used as a condensate neutralizer?

Most national and state codes 1 prohibit anyone from allowing acidic liquid into a drainage system without treating it to raise its pH. Treatment of this condensate is accomplished by exposing the liquid to a media containing calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate can be found in rocks, egg shells and shells of marine animals.

What kind of media is used as a condensate neutralizer?

The most common material used is limestone or a limestone product. There are two important factors when considering condensate neutralizers – the percentage of calcium carbonate and the amount of surface area of the media. The acid is converted to water, carbon dioxide and mineral salts when exposed to the calcium carbonate media.

What does error code 31 mean on a gas heater?

This can block your pressure switch and that fools the heater into thinking there is a problem with the exhaust pressure. It results in error code 31 on my Bryant Plus 90 gas furnace. This error code indicates many possible issues.

What should the pH level of a condensate neutralizer be?

Condensate treated by a neutralizer should have a pH level of at least 5.0, or the level determined by the local water authority code, in order to be safely released. A service technician can test the pH of condensate via two different methods: paper testing strips or a digital pH meter.

Do you need a condensate neutralizer for a boiler?

With the onset of condensing boilers, furnaces and hot water heaters, the installation of a condensate neutralizer is now a mandatory requirement. Bernasconi designed a condensate neutralizer with the installer in mind. His product contains a clear body, clean, consistent sized high quality media and offers ease of servicing.

What is the mechanical code for condensation drains?

Here is an excerpt from the Uniform Mechanical Code pertaining to the disposal of air conditioning condensate:

Who is the inventor of the condensate neutralizer?

Bernasconi designed a condensate neutralizer with the installer in mind. His product contains a clear body, clean, consistent sized high quality media and offers ease of servicing. Neutrasafe Corporation partners with manufacturer representatives throughout the U.S. to distribute its products. Products can be viewed at