How to Fix a Clogged AC Drain Line

As a homeowner, a clogged AC drain pipe can give you major issues. Regular care and preventative air conditioning services in Humble, TX,  are the best ways to avoid a clogged condensate drain line.

1. Signs of a Clogged AC Drain Pipe

  • Your air conditioner’s drain pipe makes sure that any extra moisture is eliminated. You’ll likely see a little trickle of water at the end of a PVC pipe outside your home when everything is working properly; here is where the moisture flows. This is where issues arise, which might cause a backlog of water or a blockage. Water overflowing around the air handler unit is one of the other indications that an AC drain pipe is obstructed.
  • The water safety switch would be activated, prohibiting your AC from cooling or working. Your safety switch may have lost operation because of water in the area.
  • A musty smell filled the entire home. This can be the result of an accumulation inside the system. Your air conditioner is still on, but it doesn’t smell good. If mold is found, take immediate action because it has been linked to health problems.
  • If your condensate pan is regularly full, you may have a possible obstruction. To halt the spread of mold, take action as soon as possible.

2. What to Expect from the HVAC Technician

  • Disconnect the Air Conditioning System

Even if the system is not running, the HVAC service technician will probably switch off the electricity before inspecting your clogged AC drain line. This is done to keep the technician safe and prevent further condensate-related harm to the HVAC system.

  • Examine the Drain Pan

Locating the drain and looking for standing water are two of the technician’s initial tasks. If there is any standing water, it may be wiped away with rags or sucked up with a wet vac. The dry condensate pan must be thoroughly cleaned to help avoid mold growth.

  • Keep the Drain Line Clear

The technician will probably use suction from a shop vacuum or wet vac to clean the clogged drain after physically clearing any material from the AC drain or drain pipe. They could clear the blockage using a garden hose or plumber’s snake. 

When they check the vacuum, if they were successful, they should see a black substance forced or suctioned out of the drain line. They might also see how clean water flows out of the drain after putting a tiny amount of it through to ensure the line is clear.

  • Drain Line Cleaning

After the obstruction is removed, the technician will probably proceed to thoroughly clean the drain pipe using a product that is readily accessible and made for PVC pipes. If you inquire, the technician could demonstrate how to pour a cup of a light cleaning solution, such as distilled vinegar, to give the drain a periodic cleaning between the maintenance visits.

Conclusion

Your expert will put any pieces back together or install them after cleaning and testing the drain, re-establish electricity to the system, and verify that everything is operating as it should. For more information on AC maintenance in Humble, TX, contact JHC Cooling & Heating!