Surely, you love the soothing respite during the hot days, with your HVAC system pumping conditioned air at your request. Naturally, you would be on your toes to ensure that your AC works at its full potential all the time.
However, there are high chances that you overlook your AC drain line. To ensure the proper functioning of a sophisticated system such as that of an AC, you need to keep its drain line clean.
As you know, an AC drain removes excessive condensation when needed. Remember, your system has been continually tackling the exchange of air, both hot and cold. The system would inevitably develop moisture.
In case the drain line is malfunctioning, the rampant flow of moisture would lead to the growth of molds, besides causing water damage. Leading companies like Clover Services guide their clients on how they can clean their AC drain line.
Cleaning Your AC Drain Line: What Makes It Necessary?
In a running AC, the drain line collects the condensed water. This provides a breeding ground for algae and molds. When you neglect your AC drains, it becomes the ideal place for sludge build-up.
Besides, the debris may include other contaminants like fungus, bacteria, mildew, and sometimes, small plants. More unwanted growth means that the blockage would become acute and eventually clog the system. You would find the condensed water accumulating in your AC’s drain pan.
Over time, the drain pan would fill and the excessive water would leak into your interiors once it overflows. This can lead to potential water damage, resulting in expensive repairs. Besides, neglected or improper drain line cleaning might increase the humidity level. You might experience musty odors when you keep neglecting your AC drain pipes.
Ultimately, this would lead to serious issues with your central AC system that could drain your pocket. This is why experienced professionals recommend timely maintenance and routine inspections for your AC.
What Are The Signs of a Blocked AC Drain?
In this section, you will get to know some tell-tale signs of a blocked AC drain. Make sure you remove the disturbance at the first signs of the blockage–either by yourself or by hiring an expert.
Here are some common signs that hint at a blocked AC drain:
- The AC unit blows moldy air in your interiors
- Water accumulates in the drain pan
- You may spot water damage close to the air handler
- Your AC refuses to turn on, or malfunctions
In some sophisticated cooling units, there are sensors to detect possible clogs. Even if your system has one, it’s recommended to keep an eye on the drain pan.
5 Steps To Clean Your AC Drain Line
Having discussed the importance of a clog-free drain line, you can seamlessly follow a competent DIY strategy to clean your AC Drain Line yourself.
However, at times, you might need professional help, for instance, when the condition of the line is such that it surpasses your expertise. Before you commence with the cleanup task, make sure to have these items at your disposal.
- Duct tape
- Funnel
- Rags
- Distilled vinegar
- Vacuum
- Wire brush (stiff)
Step 1: Turn your AC unit off
Before you even start locating your system’s drain line, turn your AC unit off completely. In addition to turning the switch off and breaker box, make sure that the thermostat is off as well.
In some AC units, there might also be a shut-off box present close to the outdoor unit. This is called a ‘service disconnect’. Professionals recommend turning this unit off as well when carrying out any sort of repair or maintenance work at the unit.
Step 2: Locate the drain line
A drain line is a PVC pipe that you would find near the AC’s outdoor unit. The drain line remains connected to the drain pan. Use dry rags or a vacuum for eliminating excess water collected in the drain pan.
In case you find mold or bacteria growing in your AC’s drainpipe, you can use water and soap for cleaning it thoroughly.
Step 3: Disconnecting the hose
Now that you know where your AC’s drain pipe is, remove the cap present at the top of the T-shaped head around the pipe. By doing this, you will be able to look for any possible blockage. In case you find a blockage close to the opening, dislodge it with your wire brush.
Most cases would demand a vacuum for suctioning the debris that cannot be cleaned superficially. A deep cleaning works perfectly in these situations. The duct tape will come in handy in attaching the pipe’s opening to the vacuum. Run the vacuum for around a minute and then put it off.
Step 4: Pour Vinegar
Vinegar serves as an excellent cleaning agent. So, once you have dislodged the debris, use distilled vinegar to clean the AC drain line. Distilled vinegar is effective in killing microorganisms and breaking down harmful buildups in the line.
Take around one-fourth tablespoon of vinegar in a cup and pour it into the drain line with the help of a funnel. If needed, you can always add more vinegar. Let the vinegar sit there for one to two hours and watch it eliminate the algae. Finally, use water to flush the pipe out.
Step 5: Inspect the clog
Once the drainpipe is cleaned, discard any further visible buildup as well. Next, pour an adequate amount of water into the drain opening.
An external inspection would help you verify whether or not the water drainage through the AC drain lines is working as it should be. If you see no disruptions on checking it from the outside, you can rest assured that the clog is gone. However, you may seek professional assistance if the issue persists.
Endnote
Most households opt for routine maintenance to ensure that their HVAC system stays in good shape. The timely inspection also ensures that your AC drain pipe remains clog-free.
An expert would have adequate industry know-how and equipment for disruption-free cleaning. Partnering with one such provider would be a logical move, considering their proficiency and experience.