Air Conditioner Condensation Drain Line

Because condensation collects in your air conditioner s drain line it provides the perfect breeding grounds for mold and algae to thrive.

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. The line is a pvc pipe that runs from the condenser inside your house to the outside next to the compressor. There should be a constant drip when the air conditioner is running. Check that the condensation is being removed.

As indoor air circulates through the evaporator coil dust dirt and other airborne particles can be trapped by moisture. Uniform mechanical code section 310 0 310 1 condensate disposal. Plumbing code citation for installation of air conditioning condensate drain piping. This will kill any algae mold or mildew that has formed in the pipe.

The condensation drip from the condenser is carried from the inside to the outside. A central air system routes condensation through a u shaped trap located in the drain line just outside the air handler. Air conditioner condensation drain pans. 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.

It s similar to the trap under your kitchen or bathroom sink. 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. Over time it can become trapped in your condensate drain line causing blockage. This is the condensate drain which plays an important role in removing condensation produced by your air conditioner s evaporator coil.

The condensation drain line is plugged air handling units in attics should have a secondary condensation pan in case the primary condensation pan overflows. Build up of this debris can be carried off as condensate drains from the coil. Clogged ac drain line symptoms and causes. Over time sludge and buildup form in your condensate drain line.

Occasionally the secondary condensation pan will also clog and not drain. Just pour a cup of bleach in the drain line s access opening near the indoor air conditioning unit. If the condensate drain line is clogged you will need to use a wet dry vacuum or a special pump to unclog the line.