A siphon is one of the mandatory elements for connecting plumbing equipment to sewer networks. It constantly contains a small volume of water, a water seal - it is simply necessary for sewerage, because... prevents the spread of negative odors. To choose a siphon, it’s worth understanding this issue, right?
We will talk about how the water seal fulfills its duties. The information presented to your attention will help you easily determine the types of device that are optimal for you personally. Reliable information will provide the opportunity to evaluate practical aspects and make an informed purchase.
The article outlines the design differences of the various models with utmost precision and describes the specifics of the installation. Step-by-step instructions, photographs and video guidance will help independent craftsmen in their work.
No matter where the hydraulic valve is located in the sewer network, its purpose remains the same:
- block water hammer to reduce the load on sewerage devices and pipes;
- prevent the penetration of unpleasant specific odors into residential premises.
If the water seal (or siphon) is selected correctly, a favorable atmosphere reigns in the house, and the sewer network goes without repair for a long time.
The designs of hydraulic seals of different types differ, but all of them, in one way or another, are pipes with bends of a certain shape, sometimes equipped with additional dead-end or dynamic devices.
One of the most important conditions for the functioning of a water seal is the constant presence of water in its cavity, which acts as a barrier against the penetration of gases and unpleasant odors outside.
The water barrier is constantly in the siphon. If you do not use a device (kitchen sink or toilet) for a long time, the water will evaporate and eventually appear in the bathroom or kitchen.
The same thing will happen when you flush for the first time after a long absence. But with constant use, the volume of water in the water seal is constantly updated, which prevents stagnation and, accordingly, the appearance of an unpleasant “aroma”.
Image gallery
The split system produces condensation during operation. To remove it, use an air conditioning siphon. Air and water pass through the water seal in one direction only. The jumper, which is always filled with liquid, blocks unpleasant odors coming from the sewer. There are various types of such devices, differing in design and characteristics.
The drainage siphon for the air conditioner combines the sewer with a tube for removing liquid. The water seal ensures efficient operation of the system by conducting air and liquid in one direction.
The siphon removes condensate directly into the drain, prevents the appearance of unpleasant odors and helps maintain the aesthetic appearance of the air conditioner, as a result of which moisture does not accumulate on the device and does not flow down the wall. A specially designed elbow is constantly filled with water and thereby blocks evaporation from the sewer.
The fluid is constantly replaced as the device operates and condensation forms. There are also models with locking valves and balls.
Air conditioner drain
An ordinary siphon can be found under any sink in an apartment. It can also be used as an air conditioner drain. But the device is quite large in size and will look inappropriate with a split system. For these purposes, special small siphons have been developed that perform their functions perfectly. Based on their design features, devices are divided into several types:
- with water seal;
- boxed versions for wall installation;
- with odor blocker and water seal;
- dry.
Siphons with a water seal are made in the shape of an arc. A pair of tubes is connected by a jumper in the form of an elbow, which acts as a locking mechanism. This type of device is quite popular, but it also has its disadvantages:
- large size;
- favorable environment for the appearance of bacteria and fungus;
- When the air conditioner is idle, the water in the jumper dries out, and the unpleasant odor freely passes into the room.
For hidden installation, models located in a plastic box are used. Inside there is a knee with a ball-shaped blocker. Two tubes are connected to the box - for sewerage and drainage.
The system works like a float: the liquid passes into the siphon, the ball floats up and opens the way to the sewer. After the device is drained, it returns under its own weight to its original place, blocking the hole. The design of the siphon makes it easy to remove it from the box for cleaning and install it back.
Some models with a water seal are complemented by a ball mechanism to block odor. They also include devices for cleaning pipes and removing dirt.
Siphon for air conditioner PROFcool SCU-032
A dry siphon for air conditioning is used as an alternative to a conventional device. The task of retaining the smell here is performed by a compressible rubber tube. The valve expands to allow liquid to pass through and contracts again as it drains. These models come with a funnel and a straight adapter. Siphons can also differ in the way they drain liquid. They are:
- vertical;
- horizontal;
- combined.
It is advisable to install the device in a hidden niche, but open installation along the wall surface is also possible.
The most famous manufacturers of siphons are three companies:
- Austrian HL;
- Italian Vecam;
- Russian Profcool.
Drainage for cassette type multi split system
It is important to choose a siphon that is suitable for a specific split system and fits well into the environment. There are several factors to consider when purchasing:
HL models have remained popular on the market for a long time. They have a self-cleaning function, which extends their service life and simplifies maintenance.
HL (Hutterer & Lechner) products are used to equip boiler rooms, air conditioners, refrigeration devices and ventilation systems as condensate drainage. Models can be equipped with a water seal and have an odor-locking design. For hidden installation, a device with a replaceable cassette is used, which can be removed and cleaned if necessary. The transparent structure of polypropylene allows you to monitor the level of contamination.
The HL 136 N model has a 5/4″ sealing nut and is equipped with a 60 mm water seal. The package includes a mechanical device with a dirt-cleaning device that blocks odor. Outlet DN 40 horizontal type, crimp connection DN 32 with two directions, for smooth fittings d 12-18 mm is used. Price 1721 rub.
The HL 136 NT version is similar in characteristics to the previous model, made of polypropylene with a transparent structure, installed with fan coils and air conditioners. Product cost 2347 rub.
Siphon for draining the air conditioner into the sewer. Installation option
HL 136.2 - siphon for air conditioning with a water seal with a height of 140-320 mm. You can connect a dishwasher or washing machine to it. A pipe made of transparent material allows you to monitor the condition of the valve. The non-return jet valve ensures that the blocker is refilled with water. The model has a horizontal outlet of size DN 40 and a 6/4″ cone nut. Price - 1445 rub.
HL 136.3 - device with mechanical shutter, rotating hinge, dirt collector, 5/4 connecting thread and DN 40 horizontal outlet. It can be purchased for RUR 1,721.
HL 138 is a built-in siphon model for air conditioner drainage. Used for hidden installation. Vertical outlet type DN 32, intake hole with a diameter of 20-32 mm, water seal 50 mm, odor blocker with a mechanical device. The siphon is equipped with a decorative ABS cover and a plug connected to the body. Installed at a depth of 60 mm, costs 1664 rubles.
HL 138 H - siphon for condensate. The adapter on the upper nozzle, into which a pipe measuring 20-32 mm can be installed, creates a jet break. The model is equipped with a 50 mm high water seal and a ball device that controls odor when the tube dries out. The siphon passes 0.02 l/s or 72 l/hour. Its price is 1975 rubles.
The HL 20 drip funnel receives water using the jet burst method. Its thread size is 6/4″. The model has a mounting clip. Its cost is 842 rubles.
HL 21 is another type of funnel for discharging condensate with a 60 mm water seal and an odor blocker DN 32. The purchase price will be 884 rubles.
The price of purchased products is quite high, so some craftsmen decide to assemble the siphon with their own hands. However, you cannot make a high-quality device with a check valve yourself.
You can make a U-shaped system from regular plumbing tubing. But when the split system is turned off for a long time, the liquid in the elbow will dry out and an odor will appear from the sewer. A homemade drainage element will also be too bulky and difficult to install.
It is better not to skimp on a condensate siphon and purchase a factory model with compact dimensions and a convenient functional design. A properly selected siphon for an air conditioner will ensure optimal and efficient operation of the device without unpleasant side effects such as odor or moisture formation near the split system.
Good afternoon.
What type of ball valve must be installed in the drainage system of the supply ventilation unit in the air supply compartment (after the fan), so that the air does not leave the supply unit, and water freely goes into the sewer. The water seal is not entirely suitable, since water comes from the ventilation unit periodically, and it has time to dry out.
04/15/2016 Vladimir 4
4 comments
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Hello Vladimir. Thank you for trusting our resource.
Are you wondering what type of ball valve will be effective in the drainage system of an air handling unit?
Undoubtedly, a water seal is the simplest and most effective device for preventing unpleasant odors from entering the supply air through drainage from the sewer system. But, as you pointed out, there is a problem of the water seal drying out due to irregular use of the air handling unit.
There are two options to solve this problem:
- Installation of a siphon with a water seal in the drainage system and mechanical or float ball valve.
- Installation of a siphon with a “dry” water seal.
Siphon with water seal and ball valve
As water passes through the siphon, the ball rises and allows condensate to escape into the sewer system. When the water stops moving, the ball blocks the passage of air through the siphon.
The adapter (3) provides connection of the siphon to the drainage pipes of ventilation units with different standard sizes.
The standard connection diagram for a siphon with a water seal and a mechanical ball valve (3) looks as shown in the figure.
Float Ball Valve
A standard float ball valve for installation in ventilation and air conditioning drainage systems in section looks like this:
In a dry position, the valve is closed and does not allow air to pass through. When condensation gets in, the ball floats up and opens the device for the free passage of water into the sewer system.A dry siphon also does not allow air to pass through, but allows the free movement of water through the drainage pipeline into the sewer system.
The figure shows a sectional view of the “dry siphon” device.
A compressed rubber pipe is fixed in the body of this device, which straightens as water passes through the siphon. After the water passes, the pipe contracts again. In a compressed “dry” state, the “dry siphon” will prevent air from escaping and unpleasant odors from entering the supply air from the sewer.We hope we helped in solving your problem.
- Vladimir
Thank you very much for your detailed answer.
If I understand correctly, these devices prevent air from entering the sewer into the ventilation unit, that is, from the vacuum section to the fan.
The question was about the pressure compartment of the air handling unit. In our case, the steam humidification section, which is located after the fan.
The problem is that the air leaves the supply unit and losses in air flow occur; also, when the unit is not working, there is no shutter from the sewage system. The water seal is not suitable due to periodic drainage of water, as well as the lack of need for the humidification system to operate in the summer and mid-season periods.
It is not yet clear how to solve this problem. -
Good afternoon, Vladimir. We are answering your clarifying question about the valve for the drainage of the air pressure section.
The thing is that the movement of air through the ventilation system can be compared to the flow of electric current through a conductor: the air, like the current, moves along the path of least resistance. Since the internal cross-section of the air handling unit is significantly larger than the size of the drainage hole, the air masses driven by the fan will move in the direction from the intake grille, through the filtration section, heater, fan, steam humidification section, noise attenuation (if any), to the air distribution devices. Losses in air flow mainly occur due to depressurization of the housing of the monoblock air handling unit. In modular devices, these are the junctions of sections and flexible inserts located before and after the fan.
If you insist that losses occur precisely through the drainage of the steam humidification section, then in order to block the passage of air and at the same time allow the free exit of condensate, try using a float valve, the diagram of which is shown in the figure below.
When air enters the valve, ball 11 reliably closes the drainage pipeline 8. When water enters the valve, the ball floats to the top of the valve and takes position a - a, opening a free passage for the condensate to exit, as shown in Fig. 2.
When the movement of moisture through the valve stops, the ball will drop and take its place in the valve chamber 9.
The valve can be mounted both horizontally and vertically. When installed vertically, condensate will move the floating float ball to its normal place.
There are float valves of other designs.
The operating principle of this valve is similar to that described above.
Now a few words about our proposal to use inexpensive siphons for the drainage system. We assume that they will also work because they create an additional obstacle to the passage of air and at the same time cope with the removal of condensate into the sewer system, performing the function of a water seal.
Unfortunately, it is beyond our capabilities to inspect your air handling unit with our own eyes and find out where the air flow losses are coming from. Based on this, we strongly recommend that you contact the equipment manufacturer with this problem.
We hope that we were able to assist in resolving your issue.
- Vladimir
Hello Evgeniy.
Thank you very much for the answer.
This type of valve is most suitable.
We have siphons installed. They only work when there is water in them. Therefore, we turned to you for help.
Thanks again for the advice.
During operation of the air conditioner, condensation forms. To collect moisture, the design of the indoor unit provides a special tray. Condensate is removed by a drain hose. According to the rules, climate control equipment for water discharge must be connected to the sewer system. A siphon with a water seal prevents the penetration of unpleasant odors into the apartment.
Purpose of the device
Running a drainage hose outside through a hole in the wall is the easiest way to remove condensation. A flexible tube 80 cm long serves to drain the resulting moisture. A simple and affordable option has its drawbacks: it is prohibited by SNiP, drops fall on passers-by, and in winter the drainage pipe freezes. In a private house, erosion of the blind area is added. The optimal solution is to connect the air conditioner to the sewer. An indispensable condition for proper installation is the installation of a siphon with an odor-locking device. It allows liquid to pass in one direction and prevents not only odor but also dangerous gases from entering the room.
Siphon operating principle
A conventional siphon with a water seal has a U-shape. Water remains in the elbow connecting the inlet and outlet pipes, which acts as a barrier to the release of sewer odors. When using plumbing fixtures, the water in the water seal changes frequently, and the level does not have time to decrease. In the case of an air conditioner, the supply of moisture is uneven; if the equipment is not working, the condensation does not drain. The water seal dries out, and in the absence of a water barrier, gases penetrate into the room.
A non-return valve for draining the air conditioner helps prevent an unpleasant situation. The device blocks air and sewer drains, and allows condensate to pass through unhindered. An ABS ball or spring membrane is used as a locking mechanism.
When the unit is filled with water, the float rises, opening the exit to the sewer. After the liquid leaves, it lowers under its own weight, blocking the hole.
Types of siphons
Devices are classified according to two criteria: design and method of removing moisture.
Arc-shaped model with water seal
The standard version is bulky in size. The height of the water seal should be between 140-320 mm. The pipes are made transparent for visual inspection. Outlet diameter 40 mm. To recharge the water seal, it is possible to connect a washing machine. The model is recommended for high pressure or vacuum in the drainage pipeline. Among the disadvantages of the unit: large size, favorable environment for the development of bacteria, the likelihood of drying out.
Design with water seal and odor-locking mechanism
Compact option, designed for hidden and open installation. The unit is equipped with a water seal and an odor-locking mechanism in the form of an ABS ball. When the water seal level drops, the shut-off valve closes the outlet pipe. The model is equipped with a cleaning chamber for collecting dirt. The entrance to the siphon is vertical or horizontal, pipe DN32. Horizontal outlet DN40.
Concealed system
Siphon for concealed installation with vertical connection
The siphon assembly for draining the air conditioner into the sewer is hidden in a plastic box. The unit body is installed in the wall. Placement type: vertical, water seal height 50 mm. Case size 100x100x60 mm. Two pipes are connected to the box - an inlet pipe and an outlet into the sewer. It is possible to connect drainage hoses of three diameters: 20, 26, 32 mm. Inside the case there is a transparent cassette with a water seal and an odor-locking device. The valve opens when condensate passes through and closes when the water leaves. The cassette is replaceable; you can remove it yourself and clean it of dirt.
The set includes a construction plug and a decorative cover with spring clips. When choosing the installation location, the requirement is taken into account - the minimum distance between the outlet pipe of the split system and the siphon is 2 m. To service the unit, it is enough to remove the decorative cover.
Dry aggregate
Using a water seal is a simple and cheap solution to the problem of blocking unpleasant sewer odors. Without regular renewal of the water barrier, its benefits disappear.
A dry water seal for an air conditioner is a design with a membrane, a pendulum valve or a tube that performs the function of a check valve.
The most common option is an elastic tube with molecular memory. In its normal state, it is closed and blocks sewer gases. As water passes through, the tube opens and then returns to its original shape. Advantages of dry shutter:
- compact size;
- thanks to the smooth surface of the membrane or tube, the device does not become clogged;
- serves as a reliable barrier to the spread of odor from the sewer;
- does not freeze in winter;
- the absence of elbows ensures high throughput;
- Vertical and horizontal installation is acceptable.
A dry siphon is used not only for draining air conditioners; it is installed under bathtubs and sinks in the country.
The second classification point is the method of condensate release:
- vertical release;
- horizontal release;
- combined option.
How to choose a siphon for draining condensate from an air conditioner
Siphons installed to drain condensate differ in size and design. When choosing a model, several criteria are taken into account:
- Diameter of the outlet pipe for condensate removal. The size of the drainage hose must match the inlet of the siphon.
- The free space for mounting the device is assessed. The dimensions of the model may not fit in the allocated area.
- For built-in siphons, the depth of the mounting niche in which the unit is installed is estimated.
- The throughput of the unit must correspond to the amount of condensate. The device specifications contain the necessary information. A siphon with low capacity is not suitable for air conditioners with a large volume of condensate.
- Rubber seals at the inlet and outlet of the unit ensure a tight connection. When placing the siphon under the sun's rays, ultraviolet radiation will quickly render them unusable. In such a situation, hidden installation is necessary.
Installation of drainage system
A flexible hose is laid from the drainage hole of the indoor unit of the air conditioner. To place it, a groove is punched into the wall.
The line should not make sharp turns; they prevent the uniform flow of liquid. Let's assume an angle of 45°.
To ensure the removal of condensate by gravity, the hoses are laid with a slope of 1-2 cm per 1 m of length. Sagging hoses are not allowed.
Before entering the sewer pipe, a siphon with a water seal is installed to cut off unpleasant odors. Installation is carried out using crimp nuts. The direction of flow is marked on the body of the unit. The arrow helps identify the inlet and outlet. The connection to the sewer network is made with a flow break. After installation, the system is tested.
Main manufacturers
Hutterer & Lechner
The leader in the production of siphons for air conditioning systems is the Austrian company Hutterer & Lechner (HL). The products are distinguished by high quality and simplicity of design. The technology of equipping the units with a water seal and a locking ball valve prevents the appearance of unpleasant odors. The company offers siphons of various models:
- HL 136.2 – siphon with water seal;
- HL 138 – built-in system;
- HL 136 N is a unit with a water seal and a ball odor locking device.
Vecamo
The Italian company Vecamo offers a siphon for air conditioning, which is mounted on the wall, providing free access to the inlets and outlets. The kit includes connectors designed for drainage hoses of various diameters. The transparent plastic case allows you to monitor the condition of the inside.
McAlpine
The self-closing drain valve or dry siphon of the MacValve series from McAlpine is produced in two installation sizes: 32 and 40 mm. The compact plastic case contains a polymer tube that functions as an odor-blocking device. Vertical installation is recommended, but horizontal installation is acceptable. In the first case, the throughput is 1.58-275 l/s, in the second it is lower - 0.7-1.7 l/s.
A siphon for an air conditioner is a device that is necessary to remove condensate directly into the sewer system. This device works on the principle of a water seal, allowing liquid and air to pass through in only one direction. effectively copes with the task without allowing unpleasant odors into the home.
A water seal in such a drainage unit is formed by filling with water a jumper located at the bottom of the device and connecting two communicating vertical parts of the pipeline. There is always water in the siphon bridge, which prevents odors from entering the sewer system.
Main types and design features
A classic siphon can be seen under every sink located in the kitchen of our apartment. It can certainly be used to drain drainage water from the split system into the sewer, but the device is too bulky and takes up a lot of space. That is why many manufacturers of such devices have taken the path of reducing their dimensions, due to which the following types of devices have been developed:
- for air conditioner condensate, has a U shape. The elbow connecting the inlet and outlet pipes of this device plays the role of a water seal. The device is easy to install and maintain, but has several serious drawbacks: the water in the elbow can evaporate if the air conditioning equipment is not used regularly, and unpleasant odors can enter the room. The second disadvantage is that such a drainage unit takes up a lot of space. As a rule, it is installed in specially prepared wall niches, covered with decorative panels.
- For hidden installation (wall installation), box-shaped models with a ball float valve as a locking mechanism are most often used. The ball valve floats up when condensate enters the device, allowing water to pass freely into the sewer.
With a water seal and a mechanical ball valve that prevents odors from the sewer system from entering the room. This type of device can be used for both external installation and internal (built into the wall) location. The ball valve opens due to the pressure of drainage water on it. When the flow decreases, the valve closes the outlet to the sewerage system, preventing the movement of fecal water in the opposite direction. 
A special feature of such units is the presence of a dirt collector in their design. The ball valve prevents the movement of water and unpleasant odors.
When water circulation in the device stops, the float, under its weight, blocks the drainage channel, creating a barrier to the penetration of odors from the sewer system. The float siphon for air conditioning, with its small dimensions, completely replaces the standard U-shaped drainage device. The box-type drainage units have a replaceable cassette, which, if dirty, can be changed or cleaned independently. The cassette is made of transparent plastic, which makes it possible to control its degree of contamination.
Our company’s specialists answer these questions unequivocally: Making a device with a check valve is quite difficult without special equipment.
At home, you can make an ordinary U-shaped structure out of a plumbing pipe, but after some time of inactivity of your climate control equipment, the water from the water seal elbow will evaporate and your apartment will be filled with the “wonderful aromas” of the sewer. In addition, a drainage unit that can be made from improvised means will be quite bulky and difficulties will certainly arise during its installation.
Cheaper or homemade siphon analogues often cause the spread of an unpleasant odor. You shouldn't skimp on an air conditioner siphon. Against odor, you should choose devices with a mechanical ball valve.