When most people book an air conditioning service, they may not be aware of the checks that are made. Many aspects of the AC system will be checked and tested to ensure that the system is working efficiently. One of these checks will be the condensate drip pan and the attached drain line. This is a very important part, and if the line becomes clogged, it can cause a number of issues in the home. In this article, we will take a closer look at how you can detect a clogged drain line and clear it yourself.
Removing Indoor Humidity
The AC system in your home removes heat and humidity from your home. Some people may be surprised at the amount of moisture that can be removed from their indoor air. This gathered water is collected into the condensate drip pan in the air handler and then drained away through a drainage tube that exits the home. The drain can become clogged over time, and this can lead to local flooding and water damage.
How Does a Clog Form?
The collected water in the condensate pan also contains tiny particles and bacteria. As this water drips through the drain line, it will leave behind a filmy residue that will build up over time. This residue will include materials, such as wet clumps of dirt, mould deposits, and algae growth. The drain line terminates outdoors, and clogs can also form at that end of the drain line too. Gradually the clogs will grow, and eventually, the drain line will become blocked, and the water in the condensate pan will have nowhere to go.
Identifying a Drain Clog
Most modern air handlers have a safety feature; they can detect that the condensate drip pan is full and then automatically shut down. An advanced system may even inform the owner via an email or text message. If you have an older AC system, this feature may not be present and you will need to keep an eye out for some crucial clues. If you see water dripping from a vent or ceiling, this could be a sign that your drip pan is already overflowing. There may also be puddles forming under the air handler, and the AC system should be shut down until the clog can be cleared.
Clearing a Drain Line Clog
If you want to clear the drain line yourself, you will need a wet/dry vacuum cleaner or perhaps an air compressor for more stubborn clogs. If the air handler is situated in an attic space, you will have to gain access and be prepared to work in a tight space. Locate the condensate drip pan at the bottom of the air handler and lift the pan out. Suck out any excess water and thoroughly wash the pan with hot soapy water. The clear the drain line clog with the vacuum or use the air compressor if necessary. It can be difficult without specialised equipment because maintaining a seal is hard. If you can clear the clog, use a funnel to pour some white vinegar into the drain line to kill off any remaining mould and algae. If you cannot tackle this job get in touch with a local HVAC technician to make sure that your drain line is clear.
If they need a comprehensive air conditioner service in Perth, homeowners and business managers should contact Air Spares.