How to Unclog AC Condensate Drain Line

If your AC unit leaks water, it is probably the result of a clogged air conditioner condensate drain line. If not, there may be a crack in your drain pan. Alternatively, a clogged air filter would be making the frozen evaporator coil leaking.

AC Condensate Drain LineInspecting and Cleaning Evaporator Coils

It is easy to tell if your evaporator coil is frozen. Just open up the indoor air handler cabinet and confirm. If you see frozen evaporator coils, unplug the power to your air conditioning unit at the thermostat and switch on your fan settings. Fixing this problem may be as easy as replacing your air filter. After replacing the air filter, wait until the evaporator coil is no longer frozen before you turn the unit back on. If the air filter does not fix the problem, you would have to call an expert to address refrigerant or other issues.

It is also essential to keep your evaporator clean as the condensate that drips would go straight into your condensate drain line and drain pan. If your coil is dirty, debris and water will fall into your drain pan, possibly leading to a clog.

How to Repair a Cracked Air Conditioner Drain Pan

The other possible cause of a leaking AC is a cracked drain pan, which is also simple to check. Using a flashlight, check your drain pan for any holes, cracks or other leaks. Your drain pan is situated beneath the evaporator coil. Even though tiny cracks may be fixed with epoxy glue, serious cracks need a full replacement. With a central AC system, you may notice a drain pan on your indoor unit that drains liquids to an exterior drain line. The drain pans and lines ensure that the dripping condensate from the coil and indoor air handler can well be drained to the exterior. If clogged, water would build up in the drain pan and cause damage in the home.

To seal these cracks, first, switch off power to your air conditioning unit at the breaker box. Remove the drain pan then suck out all the water using a wet-dry vacuum, and finish with a thorough clean. After the drain pan is dry completely, you may utilize your water-based sealant to fix the cause of the leak.

How to Keep the Air Conditioning Condensate Drain Line Clear And Clean

The common cause of AC leaks includes clogged air conditioning drain lines. The common cause of drain line clogs is algae and mold buildup. Luckily, it takes more time for clogs to develop and can easily be prevented by pouring vinegar in the line at intervals of three months. Because numerous indoor air handlers are installed in a hot attic, homeowners opt to undertake this maintenance practice in the early morning or late evening.

The pipe in the basement or attic that leads away from drain pans often includes a “T” with a threaded plug, which is easy to open. The best technique of destroying algae growth is with a dose of white vinegar.

Find Your Indoor Condensate Drain Line

Locate the drain line that leads away from the drain pan. Pour 6 ounces of vinegar down the drain after unscrewing the pipe cap towards the end of the “T.” Vinegar kills algae and mold but does not risk any corrosion or damage to your drain lines.

How to Clean Clogged Condensate Drain Lines

Try pouring white vinegar down your clogged condensate drain line as explained above. Wait for at least a day to see if the clog is removed. If the clog still exists, you would have to contact a professional to unclog it.