In addition to removing heat from the space, air conditioners are designed to remove humidity, though few realize it. A lot of moisture drawn out of your indoor air can be excessive on the particularly sticky days of summer. During the humidity removal process, the moisture from the air produces condensation that is shed through the drain lines. First, the water collects on the air handler’s condensate drip pan and expels outside your home as it flows down the drain tube. Over time the drain line becomes clogged from the accumulated debris and residues, which prevents efficient condensation draining. When this happens, the surrounding area can develop water damage as well as the air conditioner unit if the problem is not corrected sooner. With this in mind, we at Arkansas Air Flow would like to stress the problems with drain line clogs.
Causes & Symptoms
Filtered in the air handler’s condensate pan are the microscopic bacteria and other tiny particles in the air and after time, the clogs will form. Along with wet clumps of dust, dirt, and debris, other residues that build up in the drain line are from algae, mildew, and mold growth. During the off-season, it is common for pests to build nests on the exit end as well because the drain line leads to the exterior of your home where the condensation can be released. In the drain line, there are many variables that can lead to obstructions.
They respond by shutting down the unit to prevent damage and the production of more condensation and the good news is that in most modern air handlers are equipped with features designed to deal with a clogged drain and when they detect the drip pan is flooding. To get immediate attention, some even more sophisticated units will alert the owner with a text or email of the issue. It is the better alternative than dealing with costly damage, though some perceive having the air conditioner shut down as an inconvenience. The issue typically does not manifest until the water has dripped through your ceiling or out of your vents in the models that do not have this beneficial feature. Promptly switch off the air conditioner and call for a professional since this is a sure indicator the drip pan is overflowing due to a clog.
DIY VS Hiring an AC Contractor to Unclog AC Drain Line
It is not an easy task and to ensure it is done efficiently, as some may want to clear the drain line themselves, it requires customized tools specific to the task as well as working in tight spaces in a hot attic. A professional can get the drain line cleaned efficiently and quickly and most will respond as an emergency service so you do not have to wait long. By keeping up with routinely scheduled professional maintenance services performed by a trained technician, you can prevent clogs in the drain line. If any clogs are forming, they are quickly removed, and residue buildup is cleaned since these maintenance service include a cleaning and inspection of the drip pan and drain line.
When you need air conditioning services, such as repair, maintenance, installations or replacements in Arkansas, call Arkansas Air Flow and let us assist you.
