NATE Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps Practice Exam

The auxiliary drain line from an overflow pan must be terminated at which location?

1. Connected to the primary condensate drain line using an approved P-trap

2. At some conspicuous location so that an overflow is readily noticed

3. Have a diameter of at least 1 inch

4. Never be insulated

The correct answer is: At some conspicuous location so that an overflow is readily noticed

The auxiliary drain line from an overflow pan is designed to provide a safety mechanism in case the primary drain becomes clogged. Terminating this line at a conspicuous location ensures that any overflow from the pan is easily noticed, which is crucial for preventing water damage and maintaining the integrity of the system. Such a setup allows for prompt action to be taken by the homeowner or technician if water is observed leaking, minimizing potential damage and reducing the risk of mold or structural issues. By contrast, while the other options touch on technical specifications and requirements for drain systems, they do not emphasize the importance of visibility. The primary focus for the auxiliary drain line should be on making sure that any overflow situations can be easily detected rather than solely on technical measures like drainage connections or size specifications.