What minimum perimeter is required for a secondary drain pan that serves a unit?

The requirement for the minimum perimeter of a secondary drain pan serving a unit is important to ensure proper drainage and to prevent any overflow issues that could lead to water damage or other complications. A minimum perimeter of 3 inches provides enough space to adequately manage potential condensate without causing blockage or overflow.

The 3-inch minimum ensures that water can move freely within the pan and that the pan is sufficiently sized to capture any excess water that might drain from the primary system. This size helps to successfully support efficiency in the system and comply with industry standards and building codes, which often dictate such specifications to enhance safety and functionality.

In contrast, choices with smaller perimeters, such as 2 inches, would not provide enough space for efficient drainage, potentially leading to overflow. Larger options, like 6 inches or 12 inches, exceed the necessary dimensions, leading to inefficient use of materials or unnecessary complexity in installation. Thus, the choice of 3 inches strikes the right balance between functionality and compliance with standards.