HVAC Maintenance and Design Tips for Swimming Pools and Gyms

If water is pooling underneath your window air conditioning unit, there is a good chance that the condensate line is clogged. This problem can cause severe water damage inside of your home and your air conditioning unit may stop working altogether if any of the electrical components get wet. Resolve this problem by completing these simple steps.

Use The Following Materials

• pipe brush
• flashlight
• duct tape
• shop vacuum cleaner
• sponge
• soapy water
• rubber gloves
• towel
• bucket

1. Remove Clogs From The Condensate Line

Disconnect the power to your air conditioning unit at the breaker box and turn the power button off on your unit. Pull the end of the condensate line away from your air conditioning unit. Place a bucket under the end of the line to collect any water that is inside of it. Shine a flashlight into the line. If debris is visible, loosen and remove it with a pipe brush. Move the brush up and down to complete this step. Use the same techniques at the other end of the line that is located outside. You will find the opening of the line near the bottom of your home. 

2. Vacuum Up Any Residue That Remains

If you still see residue inside of the line, connect the hose from a shop vacuum cleaner to the end that is located outside. Secure the hose to the line with a couple pieces of duct tape. Turn the vacuum on high for a couple minutes to remove any water or debris that is stuck inside. After finishing, visually inspect the line to ensure that it is empty. Vacuum the line out a second time if you still see residue inside. 

3. Empty And Clean The Condensate Pan

Remove your air conditioning unit's front cover.Locate the condensate pan underneath the evaporator coil. Pull the pan forward and empty it into a bucket. If the pan is dirty, clean it out with soapy water and a sponge. Rinse the pan with water once you are finished and slide it back into place inside of your unit. Clean up any water from the floor. Turn the breaker switch back on and the the power button to your air conditioning unit.

If water doesn't accumulate on the floor in the future, you have successfully unclogged the line. Keep your air conditioning unit working the proper way by inspecting and cleaning the condensate pan and condensate line a couple times each year. For more information or help, contact a repair service like Cape Fear Air Conditioning & Heating Co., Inc.