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How To Clean Out Your AC’s Drain Line


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Your air conditioner’s drain line is often overlooked, but it is crucial to your unit’s overall efficiency. If you choose to ignore the drain line, you run the risk of plumbing issues that could have been avoided. Fortunately, there are some steps homeowners can take to clean out the AC drain line and prevent any problems.

Additionally, if all else fails, a team of professional plumbers can complete the task. Below, we discuss the importance of cleaning out your AC’s drain line, how to do it yourself, and when it’s time for professional assistance.

 

Why Clean Your AC Drain Line?

Your AC unit operates by cooling your home while removing heat and moisture from the indoor air. Moisture is collected in a drain pan and removed from the home through the AC drain line.

If your drain line becomes clogged, it can back up with water, leading to a slew of plumbing issues. One such issue is leaking, which can cause water damage to your floor, ceiling, or walls. If water is left standing in the drain pan due to a backup, it can also result in mold and mildew. Your unit will also not be able to run at full efficiency if it’s not properly drained, and it may even shut down on you completely.

How to Clean Your AC Drain Line

The first plan of action is to locate your AC’s drain line access point, which is found near the outdoor unit in the form of a PVC pipe with a cap on it. First, shut off your AC’s power at the breaker and thermostat. From here, you can remove the line’s cap and inspect the line for obvious blockages.

If the block is visible, put on gloves and manually remove what you can. If this doesn’t solve the issue, try using equal parts vinegar and water to dissolve the blockage, letting it sit for half an hour before flushing the unit. Repeating this process monthly is your best bet at ensuring the drain line remains clear and can run efficiently, keeping you and your home cool, comfortable, and safe.

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When To Call a Professional

If these troubleshooting steps don’t fix your issue, it’s time for professional help. If your water still isn’t flowing normally, there’s likely an issue deeper in the line that requires an expert fix. The Harris Air Services team offers reputable AC services that include diagnosing and correcting issues with your drain line, and our maintenance services keep your AC unit working well at all times.

Upon arriving at your home, we take several steps to set ourselves up for success, including coming equipped with proper tools and wearing protective gear. Our process-oriented team is dedicated to honesty and customer service, and we’ll always do what it takes to make our customers happy.

Don’t hesitate to ensure your unit can work at peak performance. Schedule same-day AC services with our team today.

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