Your cooling system produces water naturally throughout its operation by way of condensation. When your air conditioner is running, air is forced over the cold coils turning the water vapors into condensation that eventually drips from your AC system. When this occurs, people tend to think that their system is leaking water. But that is not the case, this process is entirely normal.
The AC drain line, or also referred to as the condensation drain line of your AC system is a small pipe that runs from the drain pan of your AC system to the outside of your home. The drain line in essence transports the accumulated water/condensation from your home to a safe place outside. However, from time to time the line can become clogged, which ultimately causes water backups in your AC system drain pan. If the backup continues, water will begin to overflow in the pan and can result in water stains, structural damage and a whole lot more.
HOW TO UNCLOG YOUR AC DRAIN LINE
A clogged AC line can occur for a variety of reasons, but the most common cause of a clogged AC drain line is that of a buildup of debris and other residue over the years of use. The debris accumulates in the condensation drain line and prevents the water from flowing outward, increasing the buildup in your drain pan. The longer you run your AC system without unclogging the drain line, the greater the problem becomes.
If your drain line clog is actually located near to where your drain line begins, the fix is simple. You can use any thin piece of metal or a similar material to push and dislodge the clog at its location and allow your drain pipe to start flowing appropriately again. Often times individuals will use a wire coat hanger to accomplish this task and even a typical plumbing snake if they have one available.
If your drain line clog is actually located near to where your drain line begins, the fix is simple. You can use any thin piece of metal or a similar material to push and dislodge the clog at its location and allow your drain pipe to start flowing appropriately again. Often times individuals will use a wire coat hanger to accomplish this task and even a typical plumbing snake if they have one available.
During the hotter months of the year, an HVAC system produces approximately one gallon of water per hour, so if the drain line becomes clogged and the drain pan begins to overflow, the damage can be significant. All homeowner should be sure that if they have a “split-system”, with an indoor unit located in the living space — there should always be a safety float switch attached to the safety pan under the unit that is wired into the system. This will shut the system down once water begins to fill up the drain pan, preventing damage to the ceiling and/or floors.
If the drain line clog is much further down your drain line, then the fix becomes a bit more complicated. Locate the drain line exit to the outside of your home. We recommend using a standard shop vac or wet/dry vacuum. The hose of the vacuum will typically fit right over the ¾” PCV pipe that is used for the condensation drains. Place the vacuum nozzle hose over the pipe and turn it on. Allow the vacuum to pill for five to 10 seconds. Remove the vacuum hose and allow the sludge and other debris to flow out of the drain pipe. Repeat this process several times until the water begins to flow freely from the drain.
If, however, these options are unsuccessful, we strongly suggest you reach out to the skilled and experienced technicians here at South Nashville Heating and Cooling who are professionally trained to handle these types of problems. Not only do we have the appropriate tools to repair your cooling system but we have the experience, the skill and the know-how. Whether you are in need of a drain line replacement or need a professional to unleash a truly stubborn clog, we are the team for you.
The team here at South Nashville Heating and Cooling is committed to providing all our valued clients with top of the line, affordable HVAC services in timelines that are accommodating to their needs. With that said, if you have a clogged AC drain line and are unable to resolve the problem with the options we provided above, then simply give a shout out to our team and schedule your repair appointment today.
We look forward to serving you and to providing you with the highest quality heating and cooling system products and services this side of Nashville. With the fall season soon upon us, the folks here at South Nashville Heating and Cooling wanted to wish all our clients a safe and enjoyable fall season ahead. But, don’t forget, Indian summer has yet to hit, so don’t get caught without a properly running AC system. Contact our team today!!
