What is the minimum hose size that should be used for condensation drains?

The minimum hose size that should be used for condensation drains is 5/8". This size ensures that condensate from air conditioning systems can flow freely without the risk of clogging or backflow. Adequate drain size is critical because insufficiently sized hoses can lead to water pooling, which may cause damage to the system or surrounding areas and promotes mold growth.

A 5/8" hose typically allows for proper drainage while maintaining sufficient slope for gravity drainage. It balances the need for effective water removal with practicality in installation and is commonly accepted in industry standards. Using any larger sizes, such as 3/4" or 1," may not be necessary for most standard applications, while going with smaller sizes, like 1/2", can increase the risk of blockages and drainage issues.