HVAC DRAIN LINE AND PAN CLEANING SYSTEM AND METHOD

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/708,028, filed on Oct. 16, 2024. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present technology relates to a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and, more particularly, to a device and method for cleaning and maintaining a condensate drain line and pan in such systems.

INTRODUCTION

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems serve to control the indoor climate of various structures, providing comfort and maintaining air quality for an occupant. However, the HVAC system faces ongoing challenges related to condensation management, which can lead to various issues if not properly addressed. One of the concerns in an HVAC system involves the accumulation of condensate in a drain pan and a drain line. As warm, humid air passes over the cooling coils of an air conditioning unit, moisture condenses and collects in the HVAC drain pan, requiring efficient removal from the system to reduce overflow and water damage. Over time, the condensate drain line can become clogged with debris, algae, mold, and other microorganisms that thrive in the moist environment. The blockages can impede the drainage of condensate, leading to backups and a potential overflow situation that can damage HVAC equipment and surrounding building materials, potentially causing costly repairs and disruptions to the operation of the HVAC system.

Stagnant water in the HVAC drain pan and clogged lines creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which can negatively impact indoor air quality and pose health complications to building occupants. The growth of the microorganisms can also contribute to unpleasant odors and further exacerbate drainage issues. Maintenance of the HVAC system has relied on manual cleaning and periodic treatments, which can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and often neglected. The solution often results in reactive rather than proactive maintenance, addressing problems only after they have become severe enough to cause noticeable issues.

Certain HVAC drain pan and line maintenance solutions attempt to address the aforementioned issues with microorganisms and condensate. These solutions can present their own issues, however, and can employ complex mechanisms for attachment and fluid dispensing that can be difficult to install and maintain. Solutions that rely on electronic components and power sources also introduce potential points of failure and increase overall complexity. Such a complex electronic system can introduce potential points of failure, unlike straightforward approaches that are easy to install, operate, and maintain without the need for batteries, power sources, or internet connections.

Accordingly, there is a continuing need for a simple, reliable, and effective solution for maintaining HVAC condensate drain systems that provides consistent treatment of drain pans and lines, requires minimal maintenance, and is easy to install and operate without the need for complex electronic systems or power sources, while addressing the issues of clogging, microbial growth, and overflow prevention and being adaptable to various HVAC system configurations.

SUMMARY

In concordance with the instant disclosure, a simple, reliable, and effective solution for maintaining HVAC condensate drain systems that provides consistent treatment of drain pans and lines, requires minimal maintenance, and is easy to install and operate without the need for complex electronic systems or power sources, while addressing the issues of clogging, microbial growth, and overflow prevention and being adaptable to various HVAC system configurations, has surprisingly been discovered. The present technology includes articles of manufacture, systems, and processes that relate to cleaning and maintaining condensate drain lines and pans in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

In certain embodiments, a device for cleaning and maintaining an HVAC drain pan in an HVAC system with cleaning fluid is provided. The device can include a container, a hose, and a clip. The container can include a body, a lid, and a valve. The body can have a magnetic backing for removable attachment to the HVAC system. The container can include a lid that can be moveably coupled to the body. The lid can include an integrated breather that allows air to enter as cleaning fluid is dispensed. The valve can be coupled to the body for controlling cleaning fluid release from the container. A hose can be coupled to the valve for transporting cleaning fluid from the container to the HVAC drain pan. The clip can include a push-in connector for removably holding the hose and can have a magnet for securing the hose to the HVAC system in an organized manner.

In certain embodiments, a system for cleaning and maintaining an HVAC drain pan in an HVAC system with cleaning fluid is provided. The system can include an HVAC system and a cleaning device for cleaning and maintaining an HVAC drain pan in an HVAC system, as described herein. The HVAC system can have an HVAC drain pan where condensate collects. The cleaning device can be attached to the HVAC system. The cleaning device can be magnetically mounted to the HVAC system and can deliver cleaning fluid directly to the HVAC drain pan.

In certain embodiments, a kit for field installation and maintenance of an HVAC drain pan in an HVAC system with cleaning fluid is provided. The kit can include a cleaning device, as described herein. The kit can also include installation tools including an expansion screw that can create secure mounting points, a drill bit that can be used to create mounting holes, and a pipe cutter that can be used to tailor the length of hose. The kit can include a drain pan adapter that can secure the device through the HVAC system to the HVAC drain pan, providing a reliable connection point. The kit can also include a bottle of cleaning fluid that can be used to fill the container and begin the cleaning and maintenance process.

In certain embodiments, a method for installing a device for cleaning and maintaining an HVAC drain pan in an HVAC system with cleaning fluid is provided. The method can include providing the cleaning device as described herein. The container can be magnetically attached to a surface of the HVAC system. The hose of the cleaning device can be magnetically secured to the HVAC system such that the hose is positioned within the HVAC drain pan.

In certain embodiments, a method of using a kit for field installation and maintenance of an HVAC drain pan in an HVAC system with cleaning fluid is provided. The method can include providing the cleaning kit as described herein. The container can be magnetically attached to a surface of the HVAC system. A hole can be drilled into the HVAC drain pan using the drill bit of the kit. The drain pan adapter can be secured through the HVAC system to the HVAC drain. of the cleaning device can be magnetically secured to the HVAC system such that the hose is positioned within the HVAC drain pan. The method can include filling the container with cleaning fluid.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective of a device for cleaning and maintaining an HVAC drain pan in an HVAC system with cleaning fluid;

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective of the device for cleaning and maintaining the HVAC drain pan in the HVAC system with cleaning fluid;

FIG. 3 is an environmental view a system for cleaning and maintaining the HVAC drain pan in the HVAC system with cleaning fluid including the device installed on the HVAC system;

FIG. 4 is an environmental view of the cleaning fluid flowing into the HVAC drain pan;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a kit for field installation and maintenance of the HVAC drain pan in the HVAC system with cleaning fluid;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart depicting a method for installing a device for cleaning and maintaining an HVAC drain pan in an HVAC system with cleaning fluid; and

FIGS. 7A-7B are a flowchart depicting a method of using the kit for field installation and maintenance of the HVAC drain pan in the HVAC system with cleaning fluid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom.

Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word “substantially” in describing the broadest scope of the technology. “About” when applied to numerical values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by “about” and/or “substantially” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” and/or “substantially” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters.

Although the open-ended term “comprising,” as a synonym of non-restrictive terms such as including, containing, or having, is used herein to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments may alternatively be described using more limiting terms such as “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of.” Thus, for any given embodiment reciting materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components, or process steps excluding additional materials, components or processes (for consisting of) and excluding additional materials, components or processes affecting the significant properties of the embodiment (for consisting essentially of), even though such additional materials, components or processes are not explicitly recited in this application. For example, recitation of a composition or process reciting elements A, B and C specifically envisions embodiments consisting of, and consisting essentially of, A, B and C, excluding an element D that may be recited in the art, even though element D is not explicitly described as being excluded herein.

Disclosures of ranges are, unless specified otherwise, inclusive of endpoints and include all distinct values and further divided ranges within the entire range. Thus, for example, a range of “from A to B” or “from about A to about B” is inclusive of A and of B. Disclosure of values and ranges of values for specific parameters (such as amounts, weight percentages, etc.) are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values useful herein. It is envisioned that two or more specific exemplified values for a given parameter may define endpoints for a range of values that may be claimed for the parameter. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that Parameter X may have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 1-10, or 2-9, or 3-8, it is also envisioned that Parameter X may have other ranges of values including 1-9, 1-8, 1-3, 1-2, 2-10, 2-8, 2-3, 3-10, 3-9, and so on.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The present technology provides an HVAC condensate management solution that allows for a simple, reliable, and effective way to maintain a drain pan and drain line. The present technology addresses the ongoing challenges related to condensation management in an HVAC system, including the accumulation of condensate, clogging of drain lines, and the growth of microorganisms that can impact indoor air quality. By offering a consistent and automated approach to treating a drain pan and line, the present technology reduces the need for manual cleaning and periodic treatments, which are often time-consuming, labor-intensive, and frequently neglected. Furthermore, the present technology enhances the overall efficiency and longevity of HVAC systems by militating against issues such as overflow, water damage, and equipment malfunction caused by improper condensate management. The present technology may also be provided in the form of a kit for ease of installation onsite with the HVAC system.

The present technology provides a device 100 for cleaning and maintaining a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drain pan 101 in an HVAC system 103 with cleaning fluid 105, shown generally in FIGS. 1-5. The device 100 can assist with the management of condensate in the HVAC system 103 by providing consistent and controlled treatment of the HVAC drain pan 101 and lines to address common issues associated with moisture buildup. By dispensing a predetermined amount of cleaning fluid 105 (e.g., every few months), the device 100 can maintain cleanliness in both the HVAC drain pan 101 and the entire drain line over an extended period, effectively addressing the accumulation of condensate, clogging of the drain line with debris, algae and mold, and the growth of microorganisms that can negatively impact indoor air quality and pose health risks to building occupants. The device 100 can address ongoing challenges in HVAC system 103 maintenance by providing a simple, reliable solution that can reduce the need for time-consuming, labor-intensive manual cleaning and periodic treatments that are often neglected, while addressing issues such as overflow, water damage, and equipment malfunction caused by improper condensate management.

With reference to FIG. 1, the device 100 can include a container 102, a hose 104, and a clip 106. In certain embodiments, the device 100 can further include a drain line fitting 108. The container 102 can include a body 110 that serves as the housing for the cleaning fluid 105, providing a secure and reliable storage solution for the device 100. The body 110 can include an opening 112 that allows for the placement of cleaning fluid 105 into the container 102, and the body 110 can hold and store the cleaning fluid 105 during operation, ensuring continuous availability for the cleaning process. The body 110 can have a generally rectangular or cylindrical shape with dimensions that can provide sufficient capacity for the cleaning fluid 105 while maintaining a compact profile suitable for mounting on HVAC equipment. A skilled artisan can select suitable dimensions for the body 110 within the scope of the present disclosure. The body 110 can offer the advantage of easy installation in the confined space of HVAC housing while providing adequate fluid capacity. For example, the body 110 can hold at least 32 ounces of cleaning fluid 105, which can be sufficient for multiple treatment cycles spanning several months of operation.

With reference to FIG. 2, the body 110 can include various coupling mechanisms 107 for securing the container to the HVAC system 103, providing flexibility for different installation scenarios and HVAC system 103 configurations. The body 100 can have a magnetic backing 109 for removable attachment to the HVAC system 103, which provides a secure and tool-free installation method that allows the device 100 to be magnetically mounted to metal surfaces of HVAC system 103 without requiring permanent modifications. Additionally, the body 110 can include an aperture 111 or notch that allows for wall mounting using mechanical fasteners such as nails, screws, anchors, or bolts, for example, offering an alternative installation method when magnetic attachment is not feasible or preferred. A skilled artisan can select a suitable coupling mechanism for coupling the body 110 to the HVAC system 103.

The body 110 can be formed of a plastic material, which can provide the advantage of lightweight construction, corrosion resistance, and cost-effective manufacturing. For example, the body 110 can be formed from polyethylene, including both high-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, and combinations thereof. Other suitable materials for forming the body 110 can include metal, composite materials, or other durable materials capable of containing cleaning fluid 105 without degradation. The choice of plastic materials can provide chemical compatibility with various cleaning solutions while maintaining structural integrity over extended periods of use. A skilled artisan can select a suitable material for the body 110 within the scope of the present disclosure.

The body 110 can be constructed as opaque, translucent, or transparent depending on the specific requirements of a user, with each option offering distinct advantages. Opaque construction can protect light-sensitive cleaning fluid 105 from degradation, while transparent or translucent materials can allow for visual monitoring of fluid levels and condition. In certain embodiments, the body 110 can include a viewing window or window slot that allows users to monitor the fluid level without opening the container 102, providing the advantage of quick visual inspection without compromising the sealed environment of the cleaning fluid 105. The viewing window can be positioned on the front or side of the body to provide clear visibility of the cleaning fluid 105 contents while maintaining the structural integrity of the container.

As shown in FIG. 1, the body can include fluid level measurement system 114, such as an ounce marking or graduation, that can allow the user to know how much cleaning fluid 105 remains in the body 110, providing the advantage of precise monitoring for maintenance scheduling and refill planning. The measurement system 114 can be graduated and can range from 4 oz to 32 oz, for example, providing an indicator for monitoring fluid consumption and determining when refilling is necessary, which can help users optimize maintenance intervals and ensure continuous operation. The graduated measurement system 114 can reduce the amount of guesswork required by the user and can enable predictive maintenance scheduling based on actual consumption rates.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the container 102 can include a lid 116 that covers the opening 112 of the body 110. The lid 116 can keep dirt, debris, and other contaminants out of the cleaning fluid 105 during operation, ensuring the purity and effectiveness of the cleaning solution throughout the operational cycle. The ability of the lid 116 to provide contamination protection can be particularly important in HVAC environments where dust, debris, and other airborne particles are common. The lid 116 can be removably coupled to the body 110 via various mechanisms including a hinge connection 118. The hinge connection 118 can allow the lid 116 to pivot open and closed, offering the advantage of a tethered that should not be misplaced during refilling operations. Alternative coupling methods can include snap-fit connections, threaded connections, or other suitable fastening mechanisms that can provide secure closure while allowing for easy removal when refilling is required. A skilled artisan can select a suitable connection means within the scope of the present disclosure.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the lid 116 can include an integrated breather 120 that can allow air to enter the container as cleaning fluid 105 leaves the body 110 via a valve 122. The integrated breather 120 can maintain optimal atmospheric pressure within the container 102 and can facilitate smooth fluid flow without creating a vacuum that could impede the dispensing operation, providing the advantage of consistent and reliable fluid delivery throughout the operational cycle. The integrated breather 120 can reduce the need for a separate venting component, reducing system complexity and potential failure points while ensuring that the cleaning fluid 105 can flow freely under gravity feed without pressure-related flow interruptions.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the container 102 can include the valve 122 configured as a ball valve 124. The ball valve 124 can be threadably coupled to the body 110 opposite the opening 112 to allow gravity to move the cleaning fluid 105 from the container 102 through the hose 104. In this way, the device 100 can move the cleaning fluid 105 through the device 100 without requiring an external pumping mechanism. The gravity-fed ball valve 124 can provide reliable fluid delivery while maintaining the simplicity of the overall device by reducing the need for complex pumping equipment or electrical components. It should be appreciated that the ball valve 124 can include a straight neck or an angled neck. For example, the angled neck can be disposed at an angle between 0° and 180°. In a particular embodiment, the neck can be angled an approximately 90°. A skilled artisan can select a suitable neck for the ball valve 124 within the scope of the present disclosure.

The ball valve 124 can serve as the primary control mechanism for regulating the release of cleaning fluid 105 from the container 102, allowing for precise control over when and how much fluid is dispensed. In a particular embodiment, the ball valve 124 can include a manual ball valve that allows the user to manually actuate the ball valve 124 to control fluid flow. The manual operation can provide the advantage of allowing the user to clean the HVAC drain pan 101 and drain lines outside of scheduled maintenance intervals if the user observes that additional cleaning fluid 105 is needed, such as when visual inspection reveals increased algae growth, debris accumulation, or other conditions that would benefit from additional treatment.

The manual control capability of the ball valve 124 can give the user the flexibility to respond to changing conditions in the HVAC system 103 and can ensure optimal performance regardless of seasonal variations or unusual circumstances that might require more frequent treatment.

Additionally, the ball valve 124 can be particularly effective with militating against the cleaning fluid 105 leaking from the container 102 due to the ball valve 124 being able to efficiently stop cleaning fluid flow 105.

It should be appreciated that the ball valve 124 can be constructed from various materials depending on the specific application requirements and chemical compatibility with the cleaning fluid 105 being used. The valve 122 components can be formed from brass, stainless steel, plastic materials such as PVC or polypropylene, or other materials that can provide durability and resistance to corrosion from cleaning solutions. The valve 122 can include internal ball and seat components that can be manufactured from materials that maintain sealing properties over extended periods of exposure to cleaning fluid 105, ensuring reliable operation throughout the service life of the device 100. A skilled artisan can select suitable materials for the valve 122 within the scope of the present disclosure.

The ball valve 124 can include a rubber seal or gasket where coupled to the body 110 to militate against leaking and ensure a secure, fluid-tight connection. The rubber seal can be positioned at the threaded connection point or coupling interface between the valve 122 and the body 110, providing a reliable barrier against fluid leakage that can compromise the effectiveness of the device 100 and/or create unwanted dripping. The rubber seal can be made from materials such as EPDM, nitrile, or other elastomeric compounds that can maintain sealing properties when exposed to cleaning fluid 105 and can accommodate thermal expansion and contraction cycles typical in HVAC environments. A skilled artisan can select a suitable material for the seal within the scope of the present disclosure. The sealing arrangement can ensure that all cleaning fluid 105 is directed through the intended flow path to the HVAC drain pan 101 rather than being lost through leakage, maximizing the efficiency of the cleaning operation while maintaining a clean and professional installation appearance.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 3-4, the device 100 can include the hose 104. The hose 104 can be coupled to the valve 122 of the container 102 and to the drain line fitting 108, providing a fluid pathway for transporting the cleaning fluid 105 from the container to the HVAC drain pan. In certain embodiments, where the fitting 108 is not coupled to the hose 104, the hose 104 can rest within the HVAC drain pan 101 itself. The hose 104 can serve as the conduit that connects the valve-controlled fluid release mechanism to the point of application in the HVAC drain pan 101, ensuring that cleaning fluid 105 reaches the intended destination without loss or spillage.

The hose 104 can be constructed from various materials suitable for conveying cleaning fluid 105, including clear or white tubing material. In certain embodiments, the clear tubing can allow for visual confirmation of fluid flow. The hose 104 can have dimensional characteristics that facilitate optimal flow rates, with the hose 104 capable of accommodating the cleaning fluid 105 volumes dispensed by the ball valve while maintaining appropriate flow characteristics for gravity-fed operation. For example, the hose 104 can include ⅜ inch diameter tubing in a particular embodiment. A skilled artisan can select a suitable tubing and tubing diameter within the scope of the present disclosure.

It should be noted that the hose 104 can be flexible to allow the hose 104 to be shaped and positioned according to the specific installation requirements of the HVAC system 103. The flexibility can allow the device 100 to accommodate variations in equipment layout, available mounting space, and routing requirements that differ between residential and commercial installation. The flexible nature of the hose 104 can enable a technician to customize the installation to achieve optimal fluid delivery while maintaining a neat and organized appearance that does not interfere with other HVAC components or maintenance access.

With reference to FIG. 3, the hose 104 can utilize one or more clips 106 for securing and organizing the hose 104 to the HVAC system 103 to maintain a neat installation, which can help organize and secure the hose 104 while militating against tangling and promoting a professional appearance. The clips 106 can be positioned on various surfaces of the HVAC system 103 to route the hose 104 in an orderly manner that avoids interference with other system components. In certain embodiments, the clip 106 can be magnetic to allow for the device 100 to be quickly and easily installed and repositioned should the pathway of the hose 104 require changing. Alternatively, the clip 106 can include a mechanical fastener such as a screw or a bolt, a hook and loop attachment, a suction cup attachment, a stick on attachment, and combinations thereof. A skilled artisan can select a suitable attachment between the clip 106 and the HVAC system 103 within the scope of the present disclosure.

It should be appreciated that the visual transparency of hose 104 can provide the additional benefit of allowing technicians and users to confirm that cleaning fluid 105 is flowing through the device 100, which can aid in troubleshooting and ensuring optimal operation of the device 100. The visual confirmation capability can be particularly valuable during initial installation testing and routine maintenance checks to verify that the device 100 is functioning as intended.

With reference to FIG. 3, the clip 106 can have a connector 126 for holding the hose 104, which can facilitate easy assembly and disassembly of device 100. The connector 126 can allow for quick connection of the hose 104 to the clip during installation but can also enable rapid removal of the hose 104 if necessary for maintenance, service, or reconfiguration of the device 100. The connector 126 can reduce the need for tools or complex procedures when connecting or disconnecting the hose 104, making the device 100 more user-friendly for both the installation technician and end user who may need to perform routine maintenance.

In certain embodiments, the connector 126 can include a push-in connector 128 having a substantially C-shaped cross-section to allow for the hose to be pushed into the clip 106 and for the clip 106 to hold the hose 104 securely while still permitting easy insertion and removal, as shown in FIG. 1. The C-shaped configuration can provide a gripping action that can cradle the hose 104 along a portion of a circumference of the hose 104, creating sufficient retention force to keep the hose in position during normal operation while allowing for manual insertion and extraction when needed. The C-shaped configuration can also accommodate slight variations in hose diameter and can provide flexibility to account for thermal expansion or contraction of the hose material. Alternatively, the connector 126 can include a hinged clamp, a twist-lock retention, a sliding gate mechanism, a spring-loaded jaw, an elastic retention band, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the hose 104 and the clip 106 can be integrated such that the connector 126 can be fixed on the hose 104. In a further embodiment, the connector 126 can be a closed loop such that the connector 126 is threaded onto the hose 104 and moved positionally on the hose 104 to the desired location for installation. A skilled artisan can select a suitable connector 126 within the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the device 100 can include the drain line fitting 108. The drain line fitting 108 can be coupled to the hose 104 opposite the valve 122. The drain line fitting 108 can be inserted into the HVAC drain pan 101, providing an interface between the device 100 and the point of application within the HVAC system 103. The drain line fitting 108 can serve as a terminal component of the device 100, ensuring that the cleaning fluid 105 is delivered to the HVAC drain pan 101 where the cleaning fluid 105 can perform the intended function of addressing algae growth, debris accumulation, and microbial buildup that can occur in the HVAC system 103.

It should be appreciated that the device 100 can include various drain line fittings 108 to allow the user to select the optimal drain line fitting for the specific HVAC system 103 configuration. In certain embodiments, the drain line fitting 108 can be selected from the group including a Y-fitting, a straight fitting, an L-plug-in, a T-fitting, and an L butt-joint. Each of the drain line fittings 108 can provide flexibility to accommodate the wide variety of HVAC systems 103 and installation requirements encountered in both residential and commercial applications. A skilled artisan can select a suitable drain line fitting 108 for the HVAC system 103 within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the Y-fitting can allow for splitting the fluid flow into two separate paths, which can be useful when the HVAC system 103 requires cleaning fluid 105 in multiple areas of the HVAC drain pan 101 and/or the coil. The straight fitting can provide a direct connection for applications where the hose 104 needs to connect directly to the HVAC drain pan 101 without directional changes. The L-plug-in fitting can accommodate installations where a right-angle connection is needed to properly route the cleaning fluid 105 into the HVAC drain pan 101. The T-fitting can enable distribution of cleaning fluid 105 in multiple directions from a single supply line. The L butt-joint fitting can provide another angled connection option for specific installation geometries. The various drain line fitting 108 options can ensure that the device 100 can be adapted to different HVAC system 103 configurations, whether in commercial units or residential units, and can accommodate the preferences and installation approach of different technicians.

In operation, the device 100 can be installed on the HVAC system 103 to provide a simple, reliable, and effective solution for maintaining the HVAC drain pan 101 and drain line by addressing the accumulation of condensate, clogging of drain lines, and the growth of microorganisms that can impact indoor air quality. Once installed, the device 100 can hold cleaning fluid 105 in the container 102. The cleaning fluid 105 can be dispensed at regular intervals by the user to keep the HVAC drain pan 101 clean. In operation, when the user twists the valve 122, the cleaning fluid 105 can exit the container 102 and travel through the hose 104 coupled to the valve 122 for transporting cleaning fluid 105 from the container 102. The cleaning fluid 105 travels along the pathway selected by the user with the pathway maintained and organized by the clip 106. The cleaning fluid 105 can reach the HVAC drain pan 101 through the drain line fitting 108 coupled to the hose 104 for insertion into the HVAC drain pan 101, where the fitting 108 can dispense the cleaning fluid 105 to spread across the HVAC drain pan 101, providing thorough cleaning and maintenance of the entire HVAC drain pan 101 and drain line system.

With reference to FIG. 3, the present disclosure provides a system 200 for cleaning and maintaining the HVAC drain pan 101 in the HVAC system 103 with cleaning fluid 105. The system 200 can include the device 100 as described herein. The system 200 can include the HVAC system 103 having the HVAC drain pan 101. As described herein, the container 102 of the device 100 can be magnetically attached to the HVAC system 103, allowing for tool-free installation without permanent modifications to the HVAC unit, as shown in FIG. 3. The device 100 can utilize the clip 106 to secure and organize the hose 104 between the container 102 and the drain line fitting 108, maintaining a neat installation while transporting cleaning fluid 105 from the container 102 through the valve 122 to the HVAC drain pan 101. The system 200 addresses the ongoing challenges related to condensation management in an HVAC system 103, including the accumulation of condensate, clogging of drain lines, and the growth of microorganisms that can impact indoor air quality by providing consistent treatment of the HVAC drain pan 101 and lines with minimal maintenance requirements.

With reference to FIG. 6, the present disclosure provides a method 300 for installing the device 100 for cleaning and maintaining the HVAC drain pan 101 in the HVAC system 103 with cleaning fluid 105. In a step 302, the method 300 can include providing the device 100 as described herein. The container 102 can be magnetically attached to the HVAC system 103 in a step 304. The method 300 can include using a pipe cutter to cut the hose 104 to an optimal length for the HVAC system in a step 306. In a step 308, the hose 104 can be secured to the HVAC system 103 using the clip 106.

The method 300 can include a step 310 in which the user can select the appropriate drain line fitting 108 for the specific HVAC drain pan 101. As described herein, the drain line fitting 108 can be selected from the group including a Y-fitting, a straight fitting, an L-plug-in, a T-fitting, and an L butt-joint. The selected drain line fitting 108 can be connected to the hose 104 in a step 312. In a step 314, the hose 104 can be inserted into the HVAC drain pan 101 for operation.

With reference to FIG. 5, the present disclosure provides a kit 400 for field installation and maintenance of the HVAC drain pan 101 in the HVAC system 103 with cleaning fluid 105. The kit 400 can include the device 100 as described herein. The kit 400 can also include a drill bit 402, an expansion screw 404, a pipe cutter 406, a drain pan adapter 408, and the cleaning fluid 105. The kit 400 can provide for complete installation of the device 100 on the HVAC system 103 and allow for initial use of the cleaning fluid 105.

The drill bit 402 can be included in the kit 400 as a tool for creating mounting holes during device 100 installation. Additionally, the expansion screw 404 can be used for field installation and maintenance of device 100. In certain embodiments, the container 102 can include an opening to permit for the container 102 to be secured to a nearby wall or other mounting surface via the expansion screw 404. The expansion screw 404 can create a secure mounting point for the container 102. The expansion screw 404 can serve as a fastening mechanism that can allow the device 100 to be anchored to the HVAC system 103, providing stable installation of the drain pan adapter 408 and other connection hardware.

As described herein, the hose 104 can be cut to a length specific to the HVAC system 103. For this purpose, the kit 400 can include the pipe cutter 406 to allow the technician to tailor the length of the hose 104 between the container 102 and the drain line fitting 108. The pipe cutter 406 can facilitate the hose 104 being cut to the appropriate length for each specific HVAC installation, accommodating different unit configurations and allowing for a neat, customized installation.

It should be appreciated that the HVAC system 103 can include a cutout to assist with condensation moving through the drain line of the HVAC system 103 and to the HVAC drain pan. The kit 400 can include the drain pan adapter 408 which can utilize the cutout of the HVAC system 103 to move the hose 104 into the HVAC system 103 and into the HVAC drain pan 101, where required. The drain pan adapter 408 can replace the factory plug that comes with the HVAC system 103 and can provide a connection point for inserting the hose 104 into the HVAC drain pan 101. The drain pan adapter 408 can create the interface between the hose 104 of the device 100 and the HVAC drain pan 101, where applicable, allowing the cleaning fluid 105 to be properly delivered into the condensate collection area.

In certain embodiments, the kit 400 can include cleaning fluid 105 to provide an antimicrobial solution for decontaminating the HVAC drip pan 101 and maintaining the drain line system. The cleaning fluid 105 can be designed to kill existing microorganisms and reduce regrowth in the HVAC drain pan 101 and lines, addressing issues such as algae, mold, and bacteria that can cause clogs and impact indoor air quality. The cleaning fluid 105 can serve as an active treatment agent that can maintain cleanliness in both the HVAC drain pan 101 and the entire drain line over an extended period.

With reference to FIGS. 7A-7B, the present disclosure provides a method 500 of using the kit 400 for field installation and maintenance of HVAC drain pan 101 in an HVAC system 103 with cleaning fluid 105. The method 500 can include a step 502, which involves drilling a mounting hole in the HVAC drain pan 101 using the drill bit 402 to create a hole in the HVAC system 103 for the drain pan adapter 408. The step 502 can allow the technician to prepare the HVAC drain pan 101 for installation of the drain pan adapter 408.

In a step 504, the method 500 can include installing the drain pan adapter 408 by securing the drain pan adapter 408 through the HVAC system 103 to the HVAC drain pan 101, replacing the factory plug that comes with the HVAC system 103. The technician can take out the plug that comes with the HVAC system 103 from the factory and put the drain pan adapter 408 to allow for the hose 104 to be inserted into the hole.

The container 102 can be attached to the HVAC system 103 in a step 506 using the magnetic backing to magnetically attach the container 102 to a metal surface of the HVAC system 103. The container 102 can utilize the magnetic backing for removable attachment to the HVAC system 103 without requiring tools or permanent modifications. In step 508, the length of the hose 104 can be tailored using the pipe cutter 406 to cut the hose 104 to an appropriate length between the container 102 and the drain line fitting 108. The step 506 can accommodate different HVAC systems 103 configurations and distances between components.

The hose 104 can be secured with the magnetic clip 106 in step 508 using the push-in connectors 128 to organize and secure the hose 104 to maintain a clean installation. The clip 106 can be magnetized and can allow the technician to organize the hose 104 with the clip 106.

In a step 510, the drain line fitting 108 can be selected by choosing from the available fittings including Y-fitting, straight fitting, L-plug-in, T-fitting, or L butt-joint based on the specific HVAC system 103 configuration. Varied HVAC system 103 configurations can require different approaches such as running multiple hoses 104 to different sides of the HVAC drain pan 101. In a step 512, the method 500 can include connecting the drain line fitting 108 to the hose 104 by attaching the selected drain line fitting 108 to an end of the hose 104 opposite the valve 122. The push-in connector 128 can facilitate easy assembly and can allow for component replacement when needed. The hose 104 and the drain line fitting 108 can be inserted into the HVAC drain pan in step 514 by inserting the drain line fitting 108 into the HVAC drain pan 101. The step 514 can create complete the connection between the device 100 and the HVAC system 103.

In a step 516, the method 500 can include filling the container 102 with cleaning fluid 105 by adding cleaning fluid 105 to the container 102 through the removable lid 116. The cleaning fluid 105 can serve as the antimicrobial solution for maintaining the HVAC drain pan 101 and line system. The cleaning fluid 105 level can be monitored in a step 518 using the window slot of the container 102 to visually confirm adequate cleaning fluid 105 level in the container 102. The monitoring capability can ensure the device 100 contains sufficient cleaning fluid for continued effective operation.

In a step 520, the method 500 can include using the valve 122 to dispense the cleaning fluid 105 ensuring the cleaning fluid 105 can be dispensed through the hose 104 and spread across the HVAC drain pan 101.

EXAMPLES

Example embodiments of the present technology are provided with reference to the figures enclosed herewith.

Installation and Operation of the HVAC Condensate Drain Cleaning Device

In an example, the device 100 can be installed on a residential HVAC system 103. The device 100 includes a plastic container with a capacity of 32 ounces, a removable lid 116 with an integrated breather 120, and a magnetic backing for attachment to the HVAC system 103. The homeowner begins by selecting an appropriate drain line fitting 108 for the HVAC drain pan 101 configuration and HVAC system 103. The homeowner connects the drain line fitting 108 from the container to the condensate drain pan using the selected adapter, ensuring a secure and optimal fit. The magnetic backing on the container 102 can be used to attach the container 102 to a metal surface of the HVAC system 103, providing a stable and secure installation without the need for tools or permanent modifications.

Once installed, the homeowner fills the container 102 with the cleaning fluid 105 designed for HVAC condensate systems. The clear body of the container 102 allows for easy monitoring of the cleaning fluid 105 level without the need to open or manipulate the device. The homeowner then closes the container 102 with the removable lid 116, ensuring the integrated breather 120 is in place to allow for smooth fluid flow. The device 100 is set up to dispense approximately 8 ounces of cleaning fluid every three months, for example. Dispensing of the cleaning fluid 105 is achieved through the manual ball valve 124 of the container 102, which the homeowner opens periodically to release the cleaning fluid 105. The released cleaning fluid 105 flows through clear hose 104, allowing visual confirmation of the flow, and is then dispensed through the drain line fitting 108.

Over the course of a year, the homeowner finds that they only need to refill the container once, as the 32-ounce capacity is sufficient for four 8-ounce treatments. They also notice a reduction in HVAC system-related issues, particularly problems stemming from condensate drain problems. The simplicity of the device 100, particularly with respect to the operation and maintenance, combined with the effectiveness of the device 100 in reducing clogs and microbial growth, provides the homeowner with peace of mind and reduces the need for costly professional HVAC maintenance related to condensate drain issues.

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail. Equivalent changes, modifications and variations of some embodiments, materials, compositions and methods can be made within the scope of the present technology, with substantially similar results.