Tips to avoid trouble with your AC condensate drain

After cleaning your drain lines, be sure to replace the cap on the condensate drain vent

A central air conditioning system comprises multiple smaller mechanical systems, including the condensate drainage system. The condensate drainage system may seem insignificant until it develops problems. A malfunctioning condensate drain can create serious structural damage. To avoid such problems, you may want to learn tips to avoid trouble with your AC condensate drain. First off, know the location of your condensate drain system. At the bottom end of your air conditioning unit’s evaporator coils, a shallow pan or gutter collects condensate from the coils. Since coils can be configured vertically or horizontally in their coil box, the pan sizes, shapes, and orientation depend on the AC model you are using. The condensate pan drainage line runs to the external drainage line near the condensate drain on the air handler unit service panel. Next, keep the drain lines clear. One of the most effective ways to keep your drain lines clear is by running white vinegar through the section of the drain line running outside of your air handler unit. If you have excessive mold build-up in your condensate lines, flushing the pipes with vinegar may reduce the risk of drain pan overflow resulting from clogged drain lines. Vinegar helps to loosen clogs and kill mold. After cleaning your drain lines, be sure to replace the cap on the condensate drain vent. Another tip is to schedule a routine inspection of your AC drainage. Most HVAC professionals include condensate drainage system inspection in their routine tune-up packages. They can also add agents to your AC drainage system to inhibit algae and mold growth in drainage lines and drain pans.

 

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