Are you experiencing problems with your air conditioner? If so, your AC condensate drain line may be clogged? This is one of the most common reasons that homeowners need to call for professional HVAC repair. However, with our simple air conditioner maintenance DIY guide, you may be able to resolve the problem yourself, and you may not need to call for professional AC repair in St. Louis yet.
How to Unclog Your AC Condensate Drain Line with Vinegar
Clearing the AC condensate drain line is key to optimal performance of your home AC unit. In this easy to follow step-by-step guide, you can learn how to clean and maintain your AC condensate drain line once a month using vinegar.
Step 1. First, you need to switch off the air conditioner. Switch it off both at the breaker and the thermostat to be safe.
Step 2. The next step is to find out where the AC condensate drain line is located. You will find the drain line near the outdoor unit. It is a PVC pipe that runs from the outdoor unit and it is attached to the wall of the house.
Step 3. Now you need to identify the AC condensate drain line point of access. Some have a capped or covered T-shaped vent. You will need to remove that cap to check if the pipe is clogged.
Step 4. If it is clogged or a blockage is starting to build up, flush the pipe with distilled vinegar. You do that by pouring a 1/4 cup of distilled vinegar through the AC condensate drain line. We recommend distilled vinegar because its acidity clears the clog faster. You may also use hot water, dish soap, or peroxide if you cannot stand the smell of vinegar.
Step 5. Allow the solution to sit in the AC condensate drain line for 30 minutes. After that, you can flush the pipe with water to make sure that is it is now clear and is operating normally.
Why Do AC Condensate Drain Lines Get Clogged?
Any condensation from the air conditioner first collects in the AC condensate drain line. Because such condensation is actually fresh water, it offers the perfect environment for the growth of mold and algae. As time goes by, sludge and other build up form in the drainpipe, with the mold and algae acting as the foundation. That leads to the buildup of other things such as small plants, mildew, bacteria, and fungus. Over time, the pipe can become totally blocked leading to water backing up into the AC’s drain pan.
Once that happens, eventually the drain pan gets filled and the water overflows into your home. That is usually when most people notice the leak and if you do not respond fast enough, it can cause excessive damage. If you fail to act immediately, you may start to see water damage, detect foul smells from mold, mildew, or rot and finally, the central air conditioning can become seriously damaged.
I Cleared My AC Condensate Drain Line but It Didn’t Help
If you are still experiencing AC condensate drain line clogging or related issues even after following the steps above, then it is time to call the professionals. In the greater St. Louis area, contact the heating & air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons by calling 314-993-1110 for immediate help.
