The A/C condensate drain plays an important role in removing excess water created by an air conditioning system. Unfortunately, several aspects can go wrong with drainage. Here are three common reasons why you may be having problems with your condensate drain.
Drain Trap Problems
Like your kitchen or bathroom sink, the A/C condensate drain incorporates a U-shaped trap as part of its design. When filled with water, the trap prevents gases from entering the system from the household sewer drain connection. If your air conditioner hasn’t been used in a long time or the drain line is installed with the wrong incline for channeling condensate, it could cause the water inside the trap to dry out, allowing noxious sewer gases to seep into the unit.
Mold Growth
The dark, wet confines of the condensate drain system make it the perfect place for mold spores to grow and multiply. Mold can migrate from the A/C condensate drain into the rest of the system, dispersing harmful spores throughout your home via the duct system. It can also plug up the condensate drain, causing water to back up and overflow from the drain pan. Mold growth reaching the evaporator coil can strangle the A/C system by cutting off airflow through the coil fins.
Leakage
Condensate leaks can be caused by several factors. For starters, they can originate from a cracked or corroded condensate drain pan. The PVC drain line can also form cracks or holes due to stress, accidental impact, or age. Clogs caused by debris or mold can also cause leaks through an overflowing condensate drain pan.
For more information on A/C condensate drain issues and how to resolve them, check out the latest in A/C maintenance solutions from Ambient Edge, or contact us.
