Just had a new evap installed since my existing metal condensate pan rusted out. I thought the contractor was installing a new evap with a plastic pan. Turns out the unit he installed was a multipositional evap that had a plastic pan for vertical installs and a metal pan (prepainted galvanized) for horizontal installs. Well my installation is a horizontal install so I'm back with a metal pan. The contractor stated he ensured that the pan was sloped correctly so water would not be sitting in the pan. Do I need to do some regular maintenance on this pan to prevent it from rusting out again? There is a front access panel that is somewhat sealed up with tape and mastic. thanks for any comments.
How do I maintain a metal evap condensate primary pan?
- Thread starter mikki
- Start date
bazar01
Well-known member
They usually last about 10 years. By that time you will need a new unit.
If you can pull out the metal pan, I would rust proof the edges at least because that's where the bare metal is exposed with no galvanize coating from shear cutting.
If you can pull out the metal pan, I would rust proof the edges at least because that's where the bare metal is exposed with no galvanize coating from shear cutting.
DannyboyUpstate
Active member
Pan sealer. This is a rubbery spray that you coat the pan with, which may help out
Pan Tablets. Its just a light chemical to keep junk from building up in the pan.
Both products are from NU-Calgon chemicals and are available at Refrigeration supply houses.
Falcon67
Well-known member
I hope the hell not. Our Carrier 2 1/2 ton was made in 1978 and still works great. $4000~6000 spent for 10 year life? I'd think not. IMHO, if the galvanizing stays intact and water doesn't sit, it should last a good long time, more than 10 years. If you are worried about it, pull it out and paint it with POR-15 or spray it with a rubber undercoat product - that oughta hold it.
bazar01
Well-known member
Are you sure you have galvanized drain pan? Maybe your Carrier has a plastic drain pan. 2 ton 10 SEER builder's unit only costs $1500 back then.
Most of my 2 ton units in our apartments with galvanized drain pan only lasted like 10 years and maybe 15 years at the most so whenever I replace the indoor units, I make sure they have plastic drain pans. They start to rust on the edges. You will also notice that evaporator coils with galvanized sheet metal ends holding the copper tubings also rust.