For efficient condensate drainage of industrial process and HVAC equipment. Inverted bucket traps rely on the density difference between steam and water to drain condensate as it forms. An inverted bucket floats in condensate that surrounds the bucket. As the bucket moves up and down in the condensate, a linkage connected to the bucket closes or opens a discharge valve trapping the condensate or allowing it to escape. Maximum system efficiency results from steam space being kept free of condensate.