Clogged AC Drain Line: Problems And Fixes

 Clogged condensate drain line for your standard central air conditioning system[/caption]

Air conditioners are essential to staying comfortable in the Bay Area summer season. Clogged AC drain line can threaten the efficiency of your unit. Unclogging an AC can be easy if addressed quickly. Based on this, you may end up with significant damage if you ignore this.

Reasons Not to Ignore a Clogged AC Drain Line

1. Water accumulation

Clogged AC drain line may result in water accumulation in various places. You may experience water damage within your home depending on where the AC unit is located. Indoor AC units have a higher risk of expensive water damage if the drain line gets clogged. This can cause expensive repairs to the house structure and other possessions.

2. Mold and bacterial growth

Another problem with standing water is that it leads to unwanted microbial growth. Soon, you may have mold spores in the ductwork and other areas of your home. The smell may permeate throughout your house and cause severe health concerns. Mold can cause irritation to the skin and eyes, wheezing and stuffy nose. People with breathing problems, allergies or asthma may experience shortness of breath and other symptoms.

3. AC breakdown

It is possible that you may experience an air conditioner breakdown by ignoring a clogged AC drain. The evaporator coil may freeze causing standing water. This can eventually result in the entire machine freezing. You may end up paying for costly repairs since a frozen air conditioner involves many components.

Fixing a Clogged Drain Line

Clogged drain line if caught early can be easily fixed through easy DIY steps. However, it is recommended that you call professional HVAC maintenance contractors to take care of the job.

Step 1: Turning off the AC

The first step is to turn the system’s power off if it is running. This is for your safety as well as to protect the unit from any additional condensate related damage.

Step 2: Checking the drain pan

The second step is to locate the drain pan and check for any condensate or standing water. You should remove the standing water with a wet vac or use rags to soak it up. You should clean the dry condensate pan thoroughly for preventing mold and mildew growth.

Step 3: Unclogging the drain line

Physically remove any visible debris from the drain pipe or AC drain opening. You may need to use suction from a wet vac or a short vacuum to get this done. You may make use of a plumber’s snake or a garden hose to remove the clog as well. You should find a dark mass when you check the vacuum. You can also test the line by pouring a tiny amount of clear water through the drain. Observe whether the water is able to flow out freely.

Step 4: Clean the line

You will need to thoroughly clean the drain pipe once the stoppage is removed. Use a commercially available cleaner. You can also make use of a mild cleansing agent, such as distilled vinegar. In fact, you should routinely pour a cup of cleansing agent to keep the pipe free from clogs.

Step 5: Reassemble all parts

The last step is to reinstall and reassemble all parts. You should restore the power and check that everything is functioning properly.