Your Sarasota, Florida, air conditioner’s condensate line drains moisture that’s created when your AC moves warm, humid indoor air over the AC evaporator coil. That moisture collects in the condensate drain pan and is pulled down through the line until it exits the system through a drain pipe near the AC’s outdoor unit.
Condensate Line Clogs
Locate the AC drain pipe outside. While the unit is running, there should be water dripping from the pipe. There might also be a damp area on the ground beneath the pipe. If the area is dry and no water is dripping, you may have a clog.
Microbial Growth
If there’s a bad odor coming from the drain pipe, there may be algae or microbial matter in the line. This slimy material can create blockages that prevent moisture from dripping out. The slime can also collect indoors in the drain pan and quickly multiply. A slimy drain pan may contaminate all the air that passes over it. That air will circulate throughout your home whenever the air conditioner cycles on.
Air Conditioner Leaks
When clogs develop in the drain line, moisture has nowhere to go. Instead of draining, it gets trapped in the unit. Eventually, the evaporator coil will freeze this moisture, and that will damage your system. Excess moisture can overflow into your home and create puddles on the floor near your AC. There may be water damage to your drywall, ceiling leaks and electrical wiring hazards. If microbial growth is already present in the drain pan, standing puddles indoors will encourage it to multiply even more, thereby endangering the health and well-being of your family.
When you schedule air conditioning maintenance with Climatic Conditioning Co., Inc., your air conditioning unit will receive a thorough cleaning that includes the condensate line and the drain pan. Visit us online in Sarasota, Florida, to learn more, or call us at (941) 758-3080 to find out about our HVAC service plans.
