Reason for Having Condensate Drain Pan in Refrigeration

The number of drain pans in your unit is determined by the location of the air handler unit. Local code and functionality require the unit to have two condensate drains if the evaporator coil and drain are located in your home’s attic.

The primary drain pan is the first drain pan. This pan is located inside the air handler, beneath the evaporator coil. The auxiliary drain pan is the name given to the secondary pan.

This pan, which is located beneath the air handler, serves as a warning to both the homeowner and the professional HVAC technician.

If the auxiliary drain pan is overflowing, it is reasonable to assume that the primary Condensate Drain Pan is backed up, clogged, or otherwise in need of attention.