Many power utilities incentivize commercial and industrial customers to reduce electricity consumption by offering rebates on the purchase of energy efficient equipment. Such rebate programs often encompass compressed air system assessments and upgrades.

Some compressed air rebate programs will partially pay for the cost of zero loss condensate drains. These are sometimes called no loss drains. Such drains purge only liquid and do not waste compressed air, reducing demand on the air compressor and saving electricity. Zero loss drains often replace less expensive timer drains, which purge both liquid and air.

For example, in Colorado, Minnesota, and New Mexico Xcel Energy pays customers $200 for each timer drain replaced with a zero loss drain.

The most basic type of no loss drain for compressed air uses a simple mechanical float. These drains are relatively inexpensive but also prone to clogging.

Moving up the value chain, you’ll find electronic sensing drains. This type of drain uses a capacitance sensor to detect water and control the operation of a valve.These drains are both more reliable and more expensive than their basic mechanical cousins. However capacitance sensors are susceptible to fouling and a strainer is needed to prevent clogging within the drain housing.

The premium zero loss condensate drain is a fully pneumatic level controlled drain. Examples are the Van Air Systems PDV-500T and the Ingersoll Rand PNLD II-28. These drains have large internal fluid pathways and use full-ported ball valves, making them highly resistant to clogging. Pneumatic drains are more expensive than other types of zero loss drain, although their superior reliability makes them ideal for air systems where up-time is critical.

Check if your utility has a rebate program. Even if it doesn’t, I’ve got your back. Use coupon code ZEROLOSS to get $50 off the purchase of a PDV-500T. Shipping is free to U.S. addresses.

Have questions? Email me anytime.tyler@moistureboss.com