Drain Line Clogs And Your Air Conditioner: What You Need To Know

Drain line clogs are fairly common with an air conditioning unit. Unfortunately, they can cause damage to your unit when they occur and prevent your home from getting the cold air you desire. Many homeowners have never heard of a drain line clog until a clog forms in their line and they call in a professional. However, learning about these types of clogs can help you to prevent and treat a drain line clog. Here is everything you need to know about drain line clogs. 

What Causes Drain Line Clogs

The most common reason why drain line clogs form is because of minerals and impurities in water. Minerals and impurities in water, such as calcium and rust, can build up in the drain line narrowing its opening. Another reason why drain line clogs can form is because dirt, dust and other debris gets stuck in the drain line. This is common if your air conditioning unit has not been professionally cleaned or if the air filter is clogged. Lastly, pests, such as ants, may build nests in your drain line, causing a clog. 

The Signs Your Drain Line is Clogged

When your drain line is clogged, water from the drip pan has nowhere to go. As such, you will notice the drip pan on your air conditioner is full or possibly overflowing. This presents as a puddle underneath or directly to the side of your air conditioning unit. Many newer models of air conditioners are programmed to shut down if the drip pan is full. As such, your air conditioner may also shut off and fail to cool air any longer if a clog is present. 

What to Do If You Have a Drain Line Clog

If a clog is present in the drain line, you have a few options. You can use a wet/dry shop vacuum to attempt to suck the clog out of the drain line. Another option is to use an air compressor to attempt to blow the clog out. Lastly, a heating and cooling professional can be contacted to remove the clog for you. 

Drain line clogs are fairly common with air conditioning units. However, if you begin to experience multiple clogs, it may be a sign that your unit needs to be professionally cleaned or the drain lines need to be replaced. Contact a heating and air conditioning installation and repair professional today to schedule an appointment to have your air conditioning unit inspected to determine what steps can be taken to prevent future drain line clogs.