Not only is this important for following laws and codes, but also means you get a knowledgeable professional to safely and effectively clear blockages from the AC drain line. Therefore, any time you suspect you may have a clog in the AC condensate drain, call our plumbers for help.
Flush Condensate Drain Line
The repair cost to have the drain line flushed runs between $75 to $250.
Call Service Champions for Emergency AC Repair
We provide residential AC repair in San Jose, Sacramento, and other parts of Northern California. Call 833-600-0991 or schedule your visit online whether you need a condensate drain line unclogged, an AC thermostat repair, or an air conditioner replaced.
Locate the white plastic pipe that leads outside, then check for any blockages like debris or ice. Defrost ice with warm water, not boiling, and use a rod or wire to push through the obstruction. If that doesn't work, call a pro with specialist equipment.
Symptoms of a clogged air conditioner drain line
Water damage near the indoor unit, including rust on the bottom of the unit. Musty smell when the AC is running. Heat pump/AC not cooling house. Heat pump/AC not turning on.
Common ways to identify if your condensate pipe is blocked are listening for an unusual gurgling sound when the boiler attempts to start, or the boiler may repeatedly 'lock out' or stop working and display an EA code.
A clogged AC drain line is a fairly common cause of system malfunction, and unclogging an AC drain line is often an easy issue to fix for a qualified HVAC contractor.
A clogged condensate drain line will trap water in your air conditioner. As a result, the evaporator coil will eventually turn to ice. The moisture in the drain line can also freeze, which will cause your air conditioner to turn off. But before it does, it'll likely suffer some damage.
Many HVAC professionals suggest that you avoid using harsh chemicals such as Drano to unclog the block.
Water and Dish Soap
Use a mixture of both to clean your AC drain line. The dish soap will help to break down the dirt and debris, while the water will flush it away. To use this method, mix a quart of water and a teaspoon of dish soap. Next, pour the mixture into the drain line and allow it to sit for several hours.
You can also try pouring a ¼ of a cup of white distilled vinegar (hydrogen peroxide or hot water and a bit of dish soap will also work) down the drain line access and let it sit for 30 minutes. That will help break down the clog and make it easier to vacuum out.
According to data collected by homewyse.com, the average drain cleaning job—including the cost of any supplies and labor—will run a homeowner between $100-$300. The reason for the variability in price comes down to the type of clog and how much time is required to fully clear it.
AC drain lines clog due to a backup of debris as well, but it's not usually food particles or kid's toys. Leaves and other yard debris can block the drain line. Another contributor to clogs is condensation. Condensation occurs primarily because the evaporator coil stays wet as it wrings moisture out of incoming air.
In conclusion, a clogged AC drain line can cause several problems, including water damage, reduced cooling performance, and mold growth. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the air conditioning unit\'s drain line can prevent clogs and ensure the unit runs efficiently.
Turn off your AC and remove the drain line from underneath by unscrewing the screws on its base. Then attach a hose to it and run water through it for several minutes or until all of the water comes out clean. This will cause water pressure in your drains to increase and push out any debris lodged inside them.
Average Unclog AC Drain Line Cost
Typical unclog ac drain line costs can range anywhere from $75-$250. In the case that the evaporator coil needs replacing, you are would pay between $400 to $950.
Plumbing jobs entail rigorous inspections to ensure that the systems that have been installed or worked on operate flawlessly and comply with building codes. However, do plumbers ever fix air conditioners as part of their job? The answer is no.
Average Cost:
Repairing or replacing a small section of drain pipe can typically run between $250 and $1,250. Repairing larger sections or breaks can run between $400 and $1,500, with that cost going higher based on complexity of the repair.
One of the most obvious signs is a puddle of water in your AC's drain pan, which proves the water isn't draining as it should. Other signs include: Standing water near your air conditioner's condenser unit. A moldy smell around the drain or from your system's vents and registers.
Leaks with a constant flow rather than slow drip can mean a condensate pipe has become disconnected or punctured. If that's the case, it's important to get your HVAC system serviced as soon as possible to avoid additional problems including further damage to your house.
It's always recommended that you get your boiler serviced on an annual basis to identify any potential issues before they become more serious. Vaillant's annual boiler service includes a rigorous 12-point inspection, including checking and cleaning the condensate trap.