Over time, it’s not uncommon for algae growth and dirt particles to clog up your drain pipe. A clogged central A/C drain can back water up in the drain pipe and into the drain pan, potentially flooding the area around the air handler. Many new air conditioning systems have water sensing switches that can shut a system down when it encounters enough water in the drain pan, preventing the system from running until it resets, either manually or after the water drains away.
Whenever an air conditioner runs, it creates condensation when the air flowing over the evaporator coil encounters cold temperatures. The water will then trickle into the drain pan and drainpipe before exiting your home. Over time, the pipe may clog, backing water into your home and causing damage to anything the water touches.
When an HVAC technician cleans your drainpipe and pan, he or she will:
- Clean the drain pan that lies just below the evaporator coil inside the air handler.
- Clear the top of the drainpipe by cleaning the access hole between the pan and the pipe. Your technician will likely use a wet and dry vacuum to remove the debris.
- Purge the drain line with pressure to help blow any debris clear of the drain line.
- Apply an algaecide to the drain pan to retard mold growth that can help prevent a clogged central A/C drain in the future.
When an HVAC professional clears to your drainage system, he may also find underlying problems with the evaporator coil or the drain pan. A slow draining A/C promotes mold growth on the coil, which can cause the coil to freeze over, resulting in a flooded drain pan when the ice melts. A dirty evaporator coil can do the same thing, so a pro is definitely required to clean it thoroughly.
The pros at CCAC can clear a clogged central A/C drain and clean your evaporator coil. We’ve provided exceptional HVAC services for homeowners in the Coastal Bend area since 1979.
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