There are many different components that make up a central air conditioner, and the more you know about each of them, the more you can deal with cooling problems when they arise. With that in mind, today we’re going familiarize you with your air conditioner’s condensate drain and some of the most common problems that it can develop!
What is your air conditioner’s condensate drain?
When your air conditioner blows air over its cooling coils, it does more than just cool the air in your home; it also dehumidifies it. When this happens, moisture is released from your home’s supply air, which drips off of the cooling coils in the same way that water drips off of a can of soda in heat.
Under your cooling coils is a drain pan that collects this moisture. The pan is connected to the condensate drain, which safely drains the water out of your home.
What can go wrong with your air conditioner’s condensate drain?
There are two main things that can go wrong with your air conditioner’s condensate drain. The first issue is that the drain can get clogged with dirt that was released from your home’s air.
A clogged condensate drain will cause water to back up and possibly overflow the drain pan, which will cause water to drip onto your air conditioner and the surrounding floor. Not only can this create water damage, but it can also cause mold and mildew to grow in the drain pan and stink up your home’s air.
Another issue that can occur is a crack somewhere on the drain pan or along the condensate drain lines. This is another problem that can cause water to leak in the area around your air conditioner.
Prevent condensate drain problems by scheduling an annual tune-up!
The best way to keep your air conditioner’s condensate drain problem-free is to schedule an annual tune-up with Cabrillo. During your tune-up, we’ll inspect your condensate drain and look for any clogs or cracks in the pan or drain line.
You can also help prevent condensate drain clogs by regularly changing your air filter. A clogged air filter will allow more dirt to build up in your condensate drain line, so keeping a fresh filter will minimize the chances of your condensate drain clogging.
If you have any questions about your air conditioner’s condensate drain, or if you’d like a cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Cabrillo, your Bay Area plumbing, heating and air conditioning contractor.