How to clear a clogged air conditioner drain line

Does your air conditioner have a clogged drain line? This could cause your air conditioner to malfunction or consume more energy as it struggles to dehumidify your house. Additionally, the condensation provides the perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, algae, and other pathogens. Keep reading for instructions on clearing a clogged air conditioner drainage line.

First and foremost, here are the AC drainage line clogged symptoms you need to look out for;

• The air condition is no longer working
• Water starts leaking from the air handler unit
• Your air conditioning system starts emitting a foul smell from the mold or mildew growth.
• Water damage around the air conditioner unit

Cleaning A Clogged AC Drain Line With Vinegar

Turn off the air conditioner and locate the air conditioner’s drain line. It should be easy to find as it is a PVC pipe near the air conditioner that will usually be protruding from the wall on the exterior of your house. Remove the cap from the drain line and check to see if it is blocked.

Add vinegar to the drain line. Due to its antiseptic properties, the vinegar will unclog the drain pipe and kill any germs, mold, or mildew in the pipe. Let it sit for 30 minutes before you flush the pipe with water. Then check to see if the drain line is working before placing the cap at the end of the drain line back.

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You can also use a vacuum to clean the drain pipe. Depending on how clogged the drainpipe is, you can use the wet or dry function on your vacuum. This will help to clean the drain pipe properly. To disinfect the pipe, add vinegar to the cleaning water when using the wet vacuum function.

Where Is My AC Drain Line?

The air conditioner drain line is usually placed on the outside of your house or building where the air conditioning unit is located.

How To Stop AC Drain Line From Clogging

To prevent your drain lines from clogging in the future, clean it every once in a while. Depending on how often you use it. If you are using it regularly, clean it every 30 days or so. If you use it less often, then clean it every two or three months. Regular maintenance will ensure that you do not end up with a bacterial, mold, mildew, or fungus overgrowth.