Air conditioner drains are an essential component to a functioning AC system. Failure of these drains often results in expensive water damage. Fortunately, preventing clogs in the AC drain is simple if you follow these easy steps:
- Change Your HVAC Filters Monthly! Change your HVAC Filters every 30 days! This may not seem like it has anything to do with the condensate drain system, but it is the first line of defense to prevent dust and other particles from clogging the AC drain.
- Flush the Air Conditioner Drain Twice a Year! Flush out the line by forcing water or air through the drain. Use a small-diameter tube, available at a home improvement store, and attach it to the end of a pump sprayer for the yard. Fill the sprayer with warm water and spray it into the drain line, forcing out build up.
- Clean the Drain! Purchase AC condensate tablets and place a tablet in the evaporator coil drain pan each month. They will remove the sludge and buildup inside the drain pan. Be sure to get a large bottle so you won’t have to buy another for several years! You can also create your own cleaning solution with 50/50 warm water and bleach. Pour that into the drain pan each month. This method works just as well as the tabs, although the tabs are much less messy.
- Make Sure Your Drain Flows Away From the System! This should be a no-brainer, however many service calls are a result of the drain being either knocked out of the hub, or the AC Drain system flowing in the reverse direction. Typically, it’s caused by someone working near the system and accidentally knocking it out of alignment.
- Service, Service, Service! An AC Contractor is the best person to clean your drain lines. They have the tools, equipment, and know-how to get the job done right the first time. Consider signing a service agreement with a local company you trust to proactively service and protect your system, it will save you big money in the long-term!