As temperatures rise in the summer, your air conditioning unit becomes a critical component in keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. However, even the most reliable AC units can experience issues, including clogged drains.
From understanding the signs of a clogged drain to implementing DIY maintenance techniques and seeking professional assistance, we’re going to cover everything you need to keep your AC system running smoothly through the hottest weather.
If you need professional service to fix your AC, 72 Degrees Heating & Air Conditioning would be happy to help. We serve homeowners in the greater Raleigh, NC area and will help you restore your AC unit so you can enjoy fresh, cool air all summer long.
Understanding the Causes of AC Drain Clogs
AC drain clogs can occur for a variety of reasons but most commonly occur due to dirt, dust, algae, or mold buildup within the drain line. As condensation forms inside your AC unit, these contaminants accumulate and block the drain pipe, restricting the flow of water. Insects and debris can also make their way into your drain line and add an additional blockage. Other causes include poor installation and poor maintenance of your AC system. Understanding these underlying causes is an important part of effectively addressing the clogged AC drain issue as well as preventing it from happening in the future.
Signs of a Clogged AC Drain
Some of the most common signs of a clogged AC drain are water leakage around the unit, gross odors, or a limited ability to cool. You might notice water pooling around the unit or around the drain line. If you notice any of these signs of a clogged AC drain, it’s important that you reach out to a qualified professional immediately. Water leakage, in particular, left untreated, will create mold and mildew in your home.
Why It’s Important to Prevent AC Drain Clogs
Preventing AC drain clogs helps to make sure that your HVAC system will work and will maintain a healthy indoor air quality level. Clogged drains can create many issues in your home, including water leakage, property damage, mold growth, and other health hazards. Clogged AC drains can also force your HVAC system to work harder, which requires more energy and creates higher utility bills. By using preventative measures to keep your AC drain clear, such as drain line cleaners, drain line traps, and regular maintenance, you can avoid spending a lot of money on repairs. You’ll also be providing your family with a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
Regular Maintenance to Avoid AC Drain Clogs
Regular maintenance is a vital aspect of care for your HVAC unit and will help prevent AC drain clogs from happening. Scheduled inspections by qualified technicians can make it possible to identify issues before they become catastrophic and can take care of debris buildup, mold and mildew growth, algae growth, and insect infestations in the drain line. Routine cleaning of the drain line, condensate pump, and drip pan will help keep your HVAC unit clean and reduce the likelihood of AC drain clogs. We also recommend replacing your air filters regularly, as dirty filters can create drain line blockages over time.
DIY Methods for Clearing AC Drain Clogs
DIY methods can temporarily relieve AC drain clogs, but they often won’t fix the underlying problem. One common approach is to use a wet/dry vacuum or plumber’s snake to remove internal blockages. Another common approach is to attempt to flush the drain line with a mixture of one part vinegar and one part water or a commercial drain cleaning solution. However, these methods won’t be able to attack severe clogs or deal with hidden blockages in the system. This is where 72 Degrees Heating & Air Conditioning comes in.
Commercial Drain Cleaners and Safety
Commercial drain cleaners offer a strong solution for stubborn AC drain clogs and use chemicals to break down blockages. However, these chemicals are extremely hazardous if they are not used properly. They can cause myriad health issues, from skin irritation to respiratory issues, as well as damage your internal air conditioning components. It’s important to follow strict safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer of each product and to wear safety gear such as gloves and goggles. If you do not have experience handling strong chemical cleaners, then we recommend reaching out to a professional company such as 72 Degrees Heating & Air Conditioning.
Professional Solutions for Stubborn AC Drain Clogs
Professionals use a variety of advanced equipment and techniques to handle stubborn AC drain clogs. Hydro-jetting, a high-pressure water jetting method, can blast away all of the dirt, debris, mineral deposits, and grease inside the pipe. Technicians may also use manual methods such as drain snakes or augers to eliminate tough blockages in the drain line. Professionals will first conduct a thorough inspection to determine the underlying issue before attempting to fix it.
Secondary Drain Line Installation for Extra Protection
Installing a secondary drain line provides an added layer of protection against AC drain clogs and potential water damage. The secondary line acts as a backup if the primary drain line becomes blocked or clogged. HVAC technicians often install the secondary line alongside the primary line so that it can be routed to a visible location where overflow can be detected. Homeowners can keep their home safe by installing a second drain line and avoid issues such as AC drain clogs, water damage, and expensive repairs.
Tips to Maintain Clear AC Drains
To maintain clear AC drains and prevent clogs, homeowners can follow a few tips. First, regularly inspect the drain lines for any signs of blockages or buildup of debris. Make sure to flush the drains with a mixture of vinegar and water every month to help dissolve any accumulated debris. We also recommend checking the insulation around the drain lines to ensure condensation isn’t building up and turning into a health hazard with excess moisture.
Common Questions and Concerns About AC Drain Clogs
Common questions and concerns about AC drain clogs often have to do with the causes, signs, potential damage, and preventative measures homeowners can take to protect their HVAC unit. Most homeowners want to know how they can protect their drain lines from getting clogged and creating issues with their air conditioners.
Homeowners also tend to want to know more about DIY solutions versus professional solutions. Questions and concerns about your HVAC unit and drain clogs should be directed to your trusted company. Give 72 Degrees Heating & Air Conditioning a call, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions that you might have.
Contact Us Today
Preventing AC drain clogs is important for maintaining your air conditioning system. By understanding the common causes of clogs and implementing preventative measures, you can avoid expensive repairs keep your home cool throughout the hottest summer months.
If you do experience persistent issues with clogged AC drains that require a professional technician, don’t hesitate to contact 72 Degrees Heating & Air Conditioning. Our team of experienced professionals would be happy to help you keep your AC system running smoothly. We also offer crawlspace encapsulation, AC and heating installation and repair, and ductwork services. Schedule a consultation today, and we’ll get to work restoring cool air to your Apex, NC home.
