Condensate Line Issues With Your HVAC System? 3 Things To Know

In order to work properly, your air conditioning system must have a way to get rid of the moisture it removes from the air inside your home. This is done by using an evaporator coil to gather condensation, which then drips off into a collection pan underneath. As the water collects in the pan, it is allowed to flow out through a plumbed line to a nearby drain, or in some cases, to the exterior of the home. When any part of this process does not function correctly, the air conditioning system will no longer be able to work efficiently to cool the home. If you suspect this type of problem with your air conditioning system, these tips will help you determine the issue and how to address it. 

1. Drain trap clogs 

One of the most easily detected issues involves the condensate drain trap. Homeowners who find water pooling in the area of the drain or smell unpleasant odors may be dealing with a clog in the drain trap.

If the trap has not been cleaned regularly or the system has been working non-stop, the drain trap can become clogged with dust, mineral deposits, or debris and stop the condensate from flowing properly. Clogged drain traps can also be a sign that the filters on the air conditioning system have not been changed as often as they should be, so instituting more frequent filter changes, along with regular cleaning of the trap, can be helpful in preventing these clogs. 

2. Mold or algae growth

Another common reason for condensate line issues is when mold or algae grows in the moist conditions of the evaporator pan, condensate line, or drain. When this happens, clogs can form that will slow the drainage of condensate through the system. Homeowners who note a musty smell emanating from their air conditioning vents when the system is running may have a mold and algae problem developing in their HVAC system. 

3. Dirty collection pans

When the collection pan under the evaporator becomes clogged with sediment or mold and mildew, it may overflow, instead of draining correctly into the attached condensate tube. Homeowners who note water pooled around the base of their air conditioning system cabinet or the absence of condensate flowing into their drain may be experiencing this problem. 

To diagnose or repair issues with your condensate line, homeowners can rely on a reputable plumbing repair services. In addition to solving this type of plumbing issue, the contractor can help you come up with solutions to prevent the problem from happening again.