The condensate drain for your air conditioner has an important role in the cooling process. As the air handler blows return air across the evaporator coil, moisture from the home's air is extracted and sent down the condensate drain so the home is dehumidified as well as cooled. When there's an obstruction in the drain, the process is interrupted, and the air conditioner may fail to cool or even stop working; flooding in your Berryville, VA home can also occur. Knowing about cleaning the A/C condensate drain can help you get your system working again until you can get a professional to fix any A/C problems.
Finding the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain for a split system air conditioner runs from the indoor side of your A/C to the outdoors. First, take a look at the outdoor section of the line. The line is probably dripping sludgy-looking water and is most likely clogged by algae and mold. Remove the service panel for the indoor section of the A/C and locate the drain and condensate pan. Water in the drain pan or water leaking onto the floor outside the cabinet where the A/C is located are signs of a clog.
Clearing the Condensate Drain
Turn off the air conditioner's power. Connect a wet vac to the outdoor end of the drain line, and with your hand tightly around the connection, turn on the vac and let it run for about three minutes. You may also have to suction the indoor section. Connect the vacuum hose to the drain opening and, again, closing your hand around the connection to increase suction before turning the vacuum on. Remove the cover on the T-shaped vent on the inside pipe and pour distilled vinegar or peroxide down the line to kill algae.
Learn more about cleaning the A/C condensate drain, as well as Griffith Energy Services' air conditioning services, or call us at 888-474-3391.
Image via Wikimedia Commons
