Cleaning Your Aircon Drain

Aircons are part of the HVAC system that is common in homes and industries. These systems are not only essential for heating but temperature control as well. Maintaining them and keeping them in the best condition is therefore crucial to their lifetime. Especially, aircons are vital for temperature regulation in homes, and keeping them well maintained is not an option.

Homeowners may spot issues with their aircons in different ways. Most commonly, they will notice a pool of water developing under the aircon. They may also notice the overflow of water over the condensate drain pan. In most cases, this indicates a clog in the condensate drain of the aircon.

Causes of Clogs in Aircons

The principles of fluids mechanics well explain the functioning of an aircon. Further, there are three steps through which an aircon cools the internal environment of a room. First, an AC sucks up the hot air from a room. Then, it passes through the evaporator where it is cooled and released back into the room. Throughout the cooling process, condensation occurs and water forms in the process.

The water formed through condensation drains through the condensate drain pan and pipe out of the AC system. Since this process is repetitive, there may be an accumulation of dust and other dirt in the drain of the aircon. Without the regular maintenance of the aircon, the accumulated dirt and dust may cause clogging and potential greater damage to the AC.

The dump environment of the drain pipe is also conducive for the growth of algae and mold. The continued growth of such plants may also contribute to the clogging of the drain. What’s more, the increased humidity levels of the room may cause a stuffy smell in the house.

Cleaning the Drain Pan and Pipe

HVAC experts recommend regular cleaning of the drain pan and pipe. Before you can start, it is important to know the materials you need for cleaning. Here are some of those:

  • Warm water
  • Small towel or rags
  • Cleaning solution or soap
  • Distilled vinegar
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Funnel

Steps to Cleaning Your AC Drain Pipe

  1. The first step is to turn off and unplug the aircon. This step ensures your safety and that of the AC as well.
  2. After that, locate the condensate pan and pipe by removing the access panel. The location of this unit depends
    on the model of your aircon. Most of them are, however, located under the inside unit (evaporator coil) of the AC.
  3. Check for excess water in the condensate pan and drain to know whether the drain line is clogged. Presence of
    such excess water indicates the clogging of the drain. Use a vacuum cleaner to clear the clog and the excess moisture.
  4. Clean the drain pan using warm water, cleaning solution and vinegar as well. Doing so helps eliminate any rust and stubborn dirt on the drain pan.
  5. Lastly, you need to flush the drain pipe. You can do this using clean water or a cleaning solution. Afterwards, leave the unit out for at least 30 minutes.

Aircon experts recommend that drain pans and pipes of an aircon be cleaned from time to time to avoid clogging. Such practice guarantees a longer life for your aircon as well as optimal performance.

Click here to add a comment

Leave a comment: