How To Identify Problems in the A/C Condensate Drain
Several common problems can occur in condensate drains, impairing their proper function. Most commonly, an A/C drain problem will result in mold growth and water damage in the home.
If you see water leaking or moisture around the A/C unit, this is an indication of drainage problems.
Clogs occur as dirt and debris collect on the A/C coils, which are often visible just beneath the outer part of your A/C unit. A/C coils are essentially where the cool air comes from. It is the box of coils lining the outside of the unit, otherwise known as the air handler.
Condensation forms as the unit turns warm air into cool air. This built-up debris then mixes with the water that drips from those coils. A drainage system is in place to move the condensation collected away from the unit. However, when the water mixes with the debris it can create blockages in the condensate drain or cause an obstruction of the evaporator coil.
This creates slow water flow and can cause water to back up into the drain pan and overflow. If the stoppage occurs within the drain line it will also catch the drain pan to overflow.
On the other hand, if debris builds up on evaporator coils the moisture can be redirected to not drain into the fin surface and drain pan. This moisture will drip straight off the surface of the evaporator coil and saturate the insulated platform box.
In situations where the coils are located within the interior of your home, if the collection pan overflows it could result in water damage or mold growth.
Besides water leakage, your A/C consistently shutting down on its own could be another sign of a blockage. Your HVAC system may shut the A/C unit down entirely if the inline safety float switch is triggered. These overflow units are in place to keep the unit from further damage. This trigger is also called a wet switch.
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If problems persist or worsen contact a professional to assess the situation.
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The A/C condensate drain and pan are constantly damp, creating conditions that are ripe for the development of mold and algae. As these organisms develop, they can contaminate your indoor air, which can lead to health problems. They can also damage your A/C equipment and contribute to condensate drain clogs.
HOW DO YOU KNOW THERE’S MOLD IN YOUR HVAC SYSTEM? – A musty smell, when your system is running, can indicate there is mold or algae present in your condensate drain. If you suspect mold and algae growth, handle the problem quickly as the presence of bacteria can cause health problems for your family.
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Follow these steps to remove mold from your A/C condensate drain –
A small amount of water is unlikely to be a reason for concern. But in the case of standing water and a continuously full condensate pan, there is likely a problem.
Standing water is commonly caused by the unit, but a full pan could be the fault of a leaky drain line. Keep an eye out for water damage as there doesn’t have to be present water or a full pan for there to be a problem flying just under your radar.
Water gathering around the condensate drain and signs of water damage are key indicators the pan is full.
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Regular maintenance and inspections of your unit will help you identify worn parts before any extended damage is caused. You can purchase drain pan tablets which will eliminate any algae growth in the drain pan and prevent problems before they start.
Condensate drains typically have traps, which are designed to keep air from moving in or out of the air handler without preventing condensate drainage.
The absence of a properly working p-trap could push unfiltered air into your home and cause an overflow of the condensate drain. In some cases, an improperly installed p-trap can pull the condensate up and soak the HVAC components located near the condensate pan. Depending on the type of trap in use, it can be blown dry with every cooling cycle leading to more problems inefficiency.
The best way to resolve these problems is by contacting your HVAC technician to have the condensate drains cleaned and flushed. To prevent further problems, keep your air filters clean to minimize debris in the system, and have your condensate system cleaned and flushed twice a year as part of routine HVAC system maintenance.
Dry traps are a result of a pressure incongruence. It can actually result in a not-so-dry ceiling or floor, caused by the offset pressure pushing water into the home.
It’s better to bring in an expert.
Some professionals might outfit your HVAC system with a new p-trap setup altogether or implement a fluidic control flow device. Fluidic control flow devices use air to direct pressure in the p-trap, versus water that can lead to condensate overflow.
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Having your p-trap and unit inspected and cleaned properly with a solution and technique administered by professionals is key to keeping your unit running smoothly. Installing a flush out “tee” in the drain line is beneficial for maintaining your p-trap as covered in our section on mold and algae.
You should be cleaning your A/C’s drain at least once a year to prevent any buildup or clogs in the system. Cleanings should be more frequent in warmer locations, like Florida, where the A/C is run more often.
You can have a professional help you with cleanings. But if you decide to go the DIY route it is imperative that you make sure the unit is off before you begin working.
Other measures you can take to prevent problems with your A/C condensate drain include:
For more information on proper A/C maintenance, please fill out the contact form below or give us a call. We’ve been keeping Orlando-area homes comfortable since 1969.