AC Drain Cleaning

During the hotter months the air conditioning system runs constantly. The evaporator (inside part of the system that is integrated into the furnace) cools the air and simultaneously pulls out water vapor. The water vapor condenses on the evaporator and drips water into a pan. The water then drains out of the house.

The evaporator is the upper section with the green garden hose attached.

 When the AC is constantly running a lot of water is draining. In hot humid environments the drain pipe can become plugged from mold growth. This plug will lead to the drain pan overflowing and creates a potential for water damage.

For homes in mild and hot environments the evaporator/furnace unit is typically in the attic. Locations in the upper floors of the house creates a bigger potential for disaster with water leaks. Also, the drain pipes are typically much longer and is more susceptible to plugging.

Condensation drains down the green hose.

The solution takes about 5 minutes of time and a couple dollars. All you need to do is clean the drain tube with a cup of regular household bleach. There is a special opening just for this purpose (indicated by the red circle in the image above). I like to follow the bleach with some water to be sure it flushes all the way through the system. Use a funnel to ensure none of the bleach of water spills.

For units in the upper floors of a house a lot of times the drain leads to the yard. To prevent killing the grass with bleach find the end of the drain pipe and place a bowl underneath to catch the fluid. Catching the fluid also helps to verify the drain isn't already plugged.