Understanding HVAC Issues

Keeping Your Condensation Pipe Clean

Your HVAC system probably isn't quite as complicated as you think. Simply put, there could be several basic do-it-yourself jobs that will improve the productivity of your system. This is definitely true when it comes to maintaining the air handler. The condensation pipe, which is attached to the air handler, is also an easy thing to clean and maintain. This article explains what the condensation pipe is, and how to make sure that it is properly doing its job.

Where is the Condensation Pipes

The condensation pipe is usually mounted directly to the outside of the air handler. It is secured with mounting brackets and it runs from the top to the bottom of the air handler. It depends on the exact set up your cabinet, but the pipe usually drains into a drain in the floor or a plastic tray. The top of the pipe is directly connected to the evaporator box. The evaporator box, where moisture is eliminated, can produce some extra moisture which is meant to drain through the condensation pipe.

Keeping it Clean

It is very important that this pipe is clean and free of any blockages. With all the moisture, there is a risk of salt or algae buildup on the inside of the pipe. This can slow down the draining of moisture, and ultimately affect the functionality of your evaporator. This means that that air pump it into your home will have more moisture in it, so it won't be as finely conditioned.

Also, if too much moisture is coming out of the pipe, and the tray is overflowing, or the floor drain is clogged, you could have problems with the moisture damage in other things around your air handler. So, you first step should be to regularly monitor the condense tray or drain to make sure everything is working properly.

Check the bottom of the condensation pipe and make sure that it is not clogged. It is easy to clean up by just scraping away any build up. If your condensation pipe is repeatedly getting clogged, and it seems like you need to manually unclog it yourself every few months, this probably means that there something wrong with your evaporator. This is definitely a job that will require professional help.

Usually, the problem can be easily fixed by an HVAC technician, such as from John Legg's Heating & Air Conditioning, before you need to replace your evaporator. If you repair your evaporator, you might no longer have issues with the condensation pipe or evaporator.