AC Drain Line Clogged? Don't Do This!

Keeping the appliances in your home running smoothly is one of the most important jobs for any homeowner. When you notice something wrong with your home, your immediate reaction is to try and fix it. And while some issues may require professional repairs and maintenance, others can be resolved relatively easily. A puddle of water around your air conditioning unit is no exception.

If you notice that your AC is leaking, the odds are good that the drain line is clogged. This is a common problem and something that will happen with almost every air conditioner at some point or another especially if your unit has been working overtime to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

While clearing the drain line is relatively easy, it’s important to know how to avoid making the problem worse. To that end, we have laid out what not to do when your AC drain line is clogged.

What Happens When Your AC Drain Line Is Clogged?

A clogged AC drain line can cause several problems. The air conditioner removes humidity from the air as it cools your home. This moisture collects in the drain pan and is then drained away through a small pipe known as the drain line. If the drain line gets blocked, you may experience reduced cooling efficiency, water leakage, frozen coils, Mold and mildew growth, and even a shutdown of your entire air conditioning system.

What Causes AC Drain Line Clogs?

Clogged AC drain lines occur due to dirt, debris, and microbial growth like algae and Mold. Inadequate maintenance and low refrigerant levels contribute to excess moisture, which can lead to a blockage. Improper installation, incorrect slope of the drain line, or a flawed design can also hinder proper drainage. Regular maintenance of your AC drain line will help prevent these issues.

What Not to Do When Your AC Drain Line Is Clogged

When your AC drain line is clogged, avoid using a drain snake, as it may damage the line. You might be tempted to start cleaning the AC drain line by pouring bleach or vinegar down the drain, but that can harm the system. If you're unsure how to proceed, don't attempt to clear the clog yourself; seek professional HVAC services instead.

How to Safely Unclog Your AC Drain Line

Always turn your AC power off before you start doing any work on it. This is the number one safety concern when doing any kind of work on your home yourself. Turn off the breaker that powers your HVAC system.

Next, you’ll want to locate the drain line. Start by locating the indoor unit of your air conditioner. Look for the drain pan beneath it. The drain pan is a shallow metal or plastic tray designed to collect condensation and water that drips off the evaporator coils. From the drain pan, you should see a PVC (plastic) or copper pipe connected to it. This pipe is the drain line that carries the collected water away from the indoor unit and out of your home. Follow it outdoors and remove the cap to check for debris.

When unclogging your AC drain line, use a wet/dry vacuum and not a standard carpet vacuum to remove any debris clogging the drain line. A standard vacuum is not designed to suck up liquid, and using one for this job could lead to a broken vacuum or a serious electrical injury. Once all debris has been removed, replace the cap and turn the power to your AC unit back on.

Learning how to unclog an AC drain line can be helpful, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect, don’t hesitate to call in a professional for help.

How to Prevent AC Drain Line Clogs

If your AC drain line keeps clogging, make sure to clean it regularly and have it checked by an HVAC professional. Also, replace the filter on your AC unit every 2 months to ensure it continues to effectively trap dust and particles, which can prevent them from reaching the drain line. Keep the area around your outside AC unit clean and free from any potential obstructions, such as leaves or debris, which could block water from the existing drain line.

What If I Can't Unclog My AC Drain Line Myself?

If your AC drain line is clogged consistently, it’s best to consult a professional who can diagnose the problem and perform maintenance and repairs if needed. While doing it yourself may work in the short term, a professional will ensure that more clogs don’t appear in the future and that nothing is damaged in the process. Your local pros at Aire Serv can assist you with your AC drain line cleaning needs and help keep your air conditioner running smoothly throughout the year.

Take Action Now To Stay Cool All Season

Keeping your drain line clear will help your HVAC system run efficiently throughout the season. Our experts know how to unclog an AC drain line the right way using the right equipment and techniques. Call your local Aire Serv today to request an appointment to address your clogged AC drain line and any other HVAC needs you may have.

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