Find Out About Common Condensate Drain Issues

Find Out About Common Condensate Drain Issues

September 27, 2016

During the air conditioning process, water vapor condenses out of your warm household air and moves to the outside through the condensate drain line. Over time, the drain may develop one or more problems that cause it to become clogged or not drain properly.

Common Drain Problems

When your A/C drain line has issues, you'll notice a buildup of water around your air conditioner. So what causes this? Here are the main culprits.
  • Mold and algae growth - The drain tube is damp virtually throughout the summer. This makes it ideal for mold and algae growth, which can block the drain line. The blockage causes the condensate pan to fill up. Eventually, it overflows and results in leakage and flooding that can damage your A/C equipment and flooring.
  • Dirt buildup - The moisture from your household air can contain airborne particles. These can build up in your drain line and clog it, leading to leakage and flooding.
  • Dry or blocked drain trap - Just like your kitchen and bathroom sink, your A/C drain has a trap. It can dry out or become blocked and impede the proper flow of water. This can cause sewer gases to infiltrate your home. Your A/C supply vents will emit pungent odors. It can also cause mold and mildew to develop.

How to Fix Condensate Drain Problems

If you have an A/C drain problem, you can pour a mixture of bleach and water into the drain to unclog it. You can also attach a vacuum to the drain outside and suck out the clog. For best results, call in a qualified service technician. He will flush your drain to ensure the condensed water vapor flows out of your home easily. The best way to avoid the common problems above is by having the drain inspected and cleaned during your annual A/C maintenance. To learn more about condensate drain issues, contact us at Lozier Heating & Cooling. We've been proudly serving the Des Moines area since 1906. Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: "geralt/Pixabay"