How to Install Aprilaire 1870 with a Little Giant Condensate Pump: Step-by-Step DIY Guide
Introduction
Homeowners who battle persistent humidity understand that a reliable whole‑house dehumidifier is essential for comfort, health, and structural protection. This guide explains how to install an Aprilaire 1870 dehumidifier and pair it with a Little Giant condensate pump to ensure continuous drainage without manual intervention. Readers will learn the required tools, detailed installation steps, best‑practice tips, and common troubleshooting techniques. By following these instructions, one can achieve a professional‑grade setup while saving on labor costs.
What You’ll Need
- Aprilaire 1870 whole‑house dehumidifier (or comparable model such as Aprilaire E100)
- Little Giant condensate pump – choose either the Little Giant VCMA-15UL (no overflow switch) or the Little Giant VCMA-15ULS (includes overflow detection)
- 3/8‑inch PVC or vinyl drain tubing (minimum 3 ft, longer if needed)
- Phillips screwdriver, adjustable wrench, and level
- Electrical conduit and a 115 V outlet within 6 ft of the installation site
- Optional: Waykar 80‑Pint Dehumidifier for comparison or backup
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
1. Choose the Installation Location
Select a location that meets the dehumidifier’s clearance requirements: at least 12 inches from walls, a level floor, and proximity to a drain or floor sink. The Aprilaire 1870, like the Aprilaire E100, performs best when installed in a central mechanical room or basement closet where air can circulate freely. Verify that the space can support the unit’s weight (approximately 150 lb) and that the ambient temperature stays above 45 °F.
2. Prepare the Electrical Supply
The dehumidifier requires a dedicated 115 V, 60 Hz outlet rated for at least 15 A. Shut off power at the breaker before running any wiring. Use a grounded three‑wire cord and secure it in conduit to protect against moisture. The Little Giant pumps operate on 115 V and draw only 1 A, making them safe to plug into the same circuit provided the total load does not exceed the breaker rating.
3. Position the Dehumidifier and Level It
Place the Aprilaire 1870 on the floor or on a sturdy platform. Use a bubble level to ensure the unit sits perfectly horizontal; uneven placement can cause water to collect in the internal reservoir and trigger the overflow switch on the Little Giant VCMA-15ULS. Adjust the leveling feet until the unit reads level on all sides. Tighten the foot bolts without over‑tightening to avoid cracking the housing.
4. Connect the Condensate Pump
Both Little Giant models feature a 3/8‑inch O.D. barbed discharge adapter with a built‑in check valve. Attach the drain tubing to this barb, ensuring a snug fit to prevent leaks. Route the tubing toward the nearest floor drain, sump pit, or exterior discharge point. If the drain is lower than the pump, a simple gravity feed will suffice; otherwise, the pump will lift water up to 15 feet, as specified for the VCMA‑15UL series.
The Little Giant VCMA-15UL offers a 1/2‑gallon ABS tank that temporarily holds condensate, while the VCMA‑15ULS adds an overflow detection switch that can shut down the dehumidifier or sound an alarm if the tank fills beyond safe limits. Choose the model based on whether you need automatic shutdown protection.
5. Secure the Pump Bracket (If Using the VCMA‑15ULS Bundle)
Some installations benefit from mounting the pump on a bracket to keep it stable and prevent hose kinking. The VCMA‑15ULS bundle includes a mounting bracket; attach it to a nearby joist using the supplied screws. Position the pump so the inlet aligns with the dehumidifier’s condensate outlet and the discharge tubing runs downhill without sharp bends.
6. Seal and Test the Drain Line
Clamp the tubing securely at both ends using hose clamps. Run a small amount of water through the line to verify there are no leaks and that the pump activates within a few seconds of water reaching the float switch. Observe the pump’s check valve; it should prevent backflow when the pump stops. If any leaks appear, re‑seat the barb and tighten the clamps.
7. Wire the Overflow Detection Switch (Optional)
If you selected the VCMA‑15ULS, connect its overflow switch to the dehumidifier’s control board according to the wiring diagram in the pump’s manual. The switch can be configured to either shut down the dehumidifier or trigger an audible alarm. Basic low‑voltage wiring knowledge is required; otherwise, consult a licensed electrician.
8. Power Up and Configure the Dehumidifier
Restore power at the breaker and turn on the dehumidifier. Use the built‑in interactive display to set the desired humidity level (typically 45‑55 %). The unit will begin drawing moisture, and the condensate pump will activate automatically when the internal tank reaches the float threshold. Verify that the pump cycles on and off as expected, and that water is discharged continuously to the drain.
9. Verify Continuous Operation
Allow the system to run for at least one hour while monitoring for unusual noises, leaks, or error codes. The Little Giant pumps are praised for quiet operation—customers report noise levels comparable to a whisper. If the pump produces a higher‑pitch whine, check for kinks in the tubing or a partially blocked discharge line.
10. Finalize the Installation
Secure any loose cables with zip ties, label the electrical circuit, and document the installation date for warranty purposes. Both the Aprilaire dehumidifier and Little Giant pumps carry multi‑year warranties (5 years for Aprilaire, CSA certification for Little Giant). Keep the original packaging and manuals in a safe location.
Tips & Pro Tips
- Use a drip pan. Even with a pump, a shallow pan beneath the dehumidifier adds a safety net in case of pump failure.
- Inspect the check valve. Some reviewers note the plastic check valve feels lightweight; replace it with a stainless‑steel valve for added durability if desired.
- Seasonal maintenance. Clean the pump’s inlet screens and flush the tubing with a diluted bleach solution annually to prevent slime buildup.
- Consider a smart pump. The Aprilaire E080W includes a built‑in pump and Wi‑Fi connectivity, but the Little Giant pump remains a cost‑effective alternative for retrofits.
- Noise control. Place the pump on a rubber mat to dampen vibration, especially if installed on a finished floor.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pump does not start | Float switch stuck or power not supplied | Check that the float moves freely; verify outlet voltage with a multimeter. |
| Water backs up into dehumidifier | Check valve blocked or installed upside‑down | Remove the check valve, clean any debris, and reinstall ensuring correct orientation. |
| Overflow alarm triggers | Tank full due to clogged drain line | Detach tubing, flush with warm water, and inspect for kinks. |
| Excessive noise | Pump mounted on resonant surface | Place a rubber isolation pad beneath the pump or relocate to a non‑structural area. |
Conclusion
By following this guide, one can install an Aprilaire 1870 whole‑house dehumidifier and integrate it with a Little Giant condensate pump for seamless, hands‑free water removal. The combination leverages the dehumidifier’s high capacity and the pump’s reliable 65 GPH flow rate, ensuring a dry, healthy indoor environment. Proper placement, secure connections, and routine maintenance will extend the lifespan of both devices and protect the home from moisture‑related damage.
Products Mentioned in This Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools are needed to install an Aprilaire 1870 with a Little Giant condensate pump?
You’ll need a screwdriver, drill, level, PVC pipe or hose, wire nuts, and a voltage tester.
How do I connect the Little Giant condensate pump to the Aprilaire 1870?
Attach the pump’s inlet hose to the dehumidifier’s drain outlet, run the outlet hose to a floor drain or exterior, and secure the connections with hose clamps.
Where should the Aprilaire 1870 be installed in my HVAC system?
Mount it on the supply plenum near the furnace, ensuring at least 6 inches of clearance for airflow and easy access to the drain line.
How can I prevent overflow or pump failure with the Little Giant pump?
Choose a model with an overflow switch (e.g., VCMA-15UL) and set the pump’s float level according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
What are common troubleshooting steps if the dehumidifier isn’t draining?
Check that the pump is powered, verify hose connections aren’t clogged, ensure the pump’s float isn’t stuck, and confirm the dehumidifier’s drain valve is open.