Air Conditioner Condensation Drain Line

If the line isn t properly cleaned algae and mold can grow inside and clog the drain causing elevated humidity musty odors and water damage inside your home.

Air conditioner condensation drain line.

The line is a pvc pipe that runs from the condenser inside your house to the outside next to the compressor. Plumbing code citation for installation of air conditioning condensate drain piping. Signs the ac drain line is clogged. This is the condensate drain which plays an important role in removing condensation produced by your air conditioner s evaporator coil.

There are various ways to clean out an air conditioner condensate drain and two popular methods are pouring white vinegar or bleach down the line to clear clogs. Occasionally the secondary condensation pan will also clog and not drain. The condensation drain line is plugged air handling units in attics should have a secondary condensation pan in case the primary condensation pan overflows. There should be a constant drip when the air conditioner is running.

Bleach and window units. This will kill any algae mold or mildew that has formed in the pipe. A central air system routes condensation through a u shaped trap located in the drain line just outside the air handler. This debris can include mold and mildew algae bacteria fungus and even small plants.

As indoor air circulates through the evaporator coil dust dirt and other airborne particles can be trapped by moisture. Air conditioner condensation drain pans. Uniform mechanical code section 310 0 310 1 condensate disposal. It s similar to the trap under your kitchen or bathroom sink.

The condensation drip from the condenser is carried from the inside to the outside. Over time sludge and buildup form in your condensate drain line. Over time it can become trapped in your condensate drain line causing blockage. Just pour a cup of bleach in the drain line s access opening near the indoor air conditioning unit.

Carson dunlop associates sketches left illustrate both acceptable and not recommended locations for the discharge of an air conditioner or heat pump condensate drain line discharge. Check that the condensation is being removed. Build up of this debris can be carried off as condensate drains from the coil.