If you’ve ever taken a good look at your air conditioning unit, you may have noticed a small dripping line on the outside. This is the condensate drain, which plays an important role in removing condensation produced by your air conditioner's evaporator coil. If the line isn’t properly cleaned, algae and mold can grow inside and clog the drain, causing elevated humidity, musty odors and water damage inside your home.
Cleaning the line will remove clogs and blockages and prevent algae and mold from growing.
You will need these items to clean your A/C condensate drain:
You will need these items to clean your A/C condensate drain:
- Rags
- A wet/dry vacuum
- Distilled vinegar
- A funnel
1. Turn off the power to your HVAC system at the thermostat and at the breaker.
2. If you have an indoor air handler in your attic or utility closet, you'll need to find the condensate pan. This is usually located directly under the unit. It may also be covered by a removable access panel.
3. If you see standing water in the drain pan, your drain line is probably clogged. Use a handheld or shop vacuum to remove the moisture. You can also use rags to soak up the water. At this point, you can clean the drain pan with soap.
4. Generally, clogged drains can be cleared with suction. If you have a shop vacuum, use it to pull the clog through the drain opening, which is located outside your house near the foundation. Place your hand around the pipe to improve suction and allow the vacuum to run for a minute. Then, check the vacuum canister to see if the clog was successfully removed.
5. Next, you'll need to identify the access point on the drain line. Usually, the drain will have a T-shaped vent with a PVC cover. Remove the cover and inspect the drain. Use this port to flush the drain with distilled vinegar. If you don't like the odor, you can use peroxide to gently bubble away the remaining debris. Alternately, you can use hot water and a drop of dish liquid.
6. Allow the solution to sit for 30 minutes. Complete the cleaning by flushing the pipe with water. Have a helper watch the pipe outside and tell you if the water is running freely.
Underlying problems with the system can also be responsible for compromised water flow. If the pan and drain line aren't slightly tilted, water can build up in the back of the pan and will eventually overflow. Many newer systems are equipped with overflow sensors installed within the pipe.
If you're unsure or unable to clean your air conditioner’s drain line, call the professionals at AC by Florida Comfort System at 239-774-5501. We can clean the line and install an access vent, if necessary. Check the drain line periodically to ensure that condensation is being removed properly.
All the steps above plus many other preventative maintenance tasks are covered under AC by Florida Comfort Systems very affordable Annual Comfort Contract.
- Denny Martin
Air Conditioning by Florida Comfort Systems
3945 Toll House Drive, Unit #907, Naples FL 34114
239-774-5501
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