Don't Let A Condensate Drain Clog Damage Your Air Conditioning

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Air conditioning units are complex systems made up of a variety of different components. One of the more often overlooked components is the condensate drain. A clog in this area can cause a number of issues when it comes to the manner in which your unit will operate. Make sure you know not only what this drain is, but also how a clog can cause major problems.

What Is A Condensate Drain?

In the simplest of terms, when you power on your air conditioner, it pulls air from the outside into the unit. Once this warm air enters the unit, it passes over the evaporator coil where the heat is extracted, cooling the air.

However, in addition to heat, moisture is also extracted from the air and collected within the base of the coil in an area known as a condensate pan. From there, the moisture is pumped out and passed through the condensate drain, removing it from your home.

Drain Clog

The only factor that can prevent water from easily passing through the drain is a clog. Clogs occur for a number of different reasons; however, there are two common reasons. The first cause is often an overgrowth of algae. In areas with extreme humidity, this can be a real problem because the moisture creates an ample breeding ground for this growth.

Another concern is a buildup of insulation fibers. Through normal use, insulation fibers break away and pass through the air over the coils where they ultimately settle within the drain. Both of these problems cause a clog that blocks the drain.

The Problem

A clogged condensate drain can cause both dangerous and costly damages. When moisture backs up due to a clogged drain, this causes the shallow, condensate pan to overflow. Overflowing water exposed to all the wires and other connectors that run along the base of the air conditioner introduces the risk of an electrical fire. Even if you avoid this type of hazard, you're still looking at costly electrical damage.

Prevention

The best way to prevent this problem is to change your air conditioner filter as recommended. The cleaner the air that passes through the unit, the fewer particles that can build up within the condensate pan. Another good step is to have your unit routinely inspected, as a technician will be able to spot even a tiny clog, allowing you the opportunity to address it before it becomes a larger problem.

If you have a condensate drain clog, call on a repair technician, such as those at HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric, right away. If you don't, make sure you are taking proactive measures to prevent this problem.

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4 February 2016