The drain pan and condensate drain line in an AC unit move residual water from the system to outside your home. If you have an AC drain pan full of water, it can lead to leaks, bacteria and algae buildup, and water damage. Leaks can also be a sign of future problems with other AC system components. Read on to learn how to inspect your AC drain pan and condensate drain line.
Think of the water droplets that form on a cold drink in summer — placing a coaster below the glass keeps the condensation from damaging surfaces. An AC drain pan collects the condensation formed when warm air passes over extremely cold evaporator coils. The drain line moves the water from the pan to outside your home.
When your AC unit is optimally operating, your drain pan and line should have no problem moving the water out of the system. Unfortunately, sometimes condensate drain pans and lines can get damaged or clogged and cause quite a mess.
The AC drain pan is located in the indoor unit, underneath the evaporator coils, usually on the same side as the air intake. There is a fixed drain pan under the coils and an overflow drain pan below that.
You should inspect your AC unit’s drain pan regularly. Inspections can help with early leak detection and help prevent water damage. A small amount of leaked water — even one inch or less — can cause floors to warp and create stains on walls and ceilings. Standing water can also provide mold and bacteria an opportunity to grow, leading to potential health problems.
A dry drain pan limits the potential for water and rust damage in your home and can help prevent health issues.
If water is pooling around your indoor unit, you probably have an AC drainage problem. Some AC units have an overflow float switch that will turn the air conditioner off if it detects a backup. If your air conditioner won’t turn on, one of the first things you should check is the drainage system.
To prevent system shutdowns and condensation leaks around your air conditioner, learn the steps to inspect the drain pan and condensate line.
Turn the central air conditioning thermostat on and allow it to run for 20 to 30 minutes.
Locate the indoor AC unit and look for any evidence of water around the unit.
Turn off the power to the air conditioner.
Remove the access panel and inspect the overflow pan.
Use a flashlight to inspect the drain pan and the overflow drain pan.
Note any cracks, dents, holes, rust, and mold or algae build-up.
Check the opening to the condensate drain line and the drain pipe (usually 3/4-inch white PVC pipe) for any obvious backups or debris.
Visually inspect the entire drain line (indoors and out) for any cracks or damage and make sure it is properly draining outdoors.
You’ll need to clear clogs and debris from the system to completely drain the pan. Before getting started, set yourself up for success with a flashlight, a wet/dry vacuum with a 3/4-inch hose attachment, a jug for water, and a towel or rag.
Clean out the drain pan as best you can using a rag or vacuum.
Find the PVC cleanout tee (a small vertical section of the drain pipe) and unscrew the cap.
Insert a funnel and slowly pour a gallon of water down the drain. The weight of the water can get things moving again.
If the water doesn’t drain, use the vacuum to draw out the clog from the outside pipe opening with these steps.
Use a towel or duct tape to create a tight seal between the vacuum hose and the pipe.
Run the vacuum for a few seconds, up to a minute.
Remove the vacuum when the water starts flowing.
Rinse any mold, algae, bacteria, slime, and residue from the line using a small amount of boiling water.
If you can’t get the line to drain, it’s time to contact the professionals at Service Champions. Our HVAC technicians perform AC tune-ups in Sacramento County and the Bay Area.
It’s important to know that there are typically two different drain pans — an overflow pan and a permanent one. While you can remove, clean, fix, and replace the overflow pan yourself, you’ll need to contact a professional for any work on the permanent one.
Regular maintenance for your HVAC unit will keep your condensate line clear and there are some tasks you can perform yourself. For example, you can pour a cup of vinegar down the drain to help kill mold, algae, and fungi and to help prevent clogs.
It can be tempting to handle AC drain pan maintenance yourself, but there are times when a professional should tackle the job. The best preventive measure is to have your unit professionally serviced regularly. An AC pro can troubleshoot for issues, find the source of any leaks, and look after repairs before they become a bigger problem.
Service Champions is known for trustworthy, on-time home service throughout the East Bay, South Bay, and Sacramento areas. Schedule AC service at the beginning of the hot California summer and our trained technicians will inspect your system, clear your condensate drain line, and fix any leaks you may have. Contact us for more information on taking care of your HVAC system.