A method for a pressurized gas system includes: a collecting step wherein condensate is collected over a duration; a detection step terminating the collecting step and detecting condensate in a region with a sensor; a discharge step over a duration, where condensate is discharged if detected in the region. When condensate is first detected, the collecting duration of the subsequent collecting steps is shortened and/or the discharge duration of the following discharge steps is lengthened and/or a degree of opening of the drainage valve in the following discharge steps is increased. When condensate is not detected, the collecting duration of the following collecting steps is lengthened and/or the discharge duration of the following discharge steps is shortened and/or a degree of opening of the drainage valve in the following discharge steps is decreased.