Clean out an AC drain line

How To Clean Out an AC Drain Line

Having your air conditioner provide you with cool air during summertime is like a blessing in itself. This is why you have to ensure that your AC does not fail you during these warm days. One of the ways to boost its efficiency is by cleaning the AC drain line. Over time, dust, mold, and debris can build up in the drain line. This potentially clogs the drain line, reduces its performance, and expels harmful air. For these reasons, you must regularly clean out AC drain line.

You can either hire a professional to do the job or try to do it yourself. If you choose to do the latter, here's how you can clean out AC drain line yourself.

Step-by-Step Proceedure

The best way to unclog and clean your drain line is with vinegar because it helps to dissolve any mold or bacteria in the line. Here's how you can use it to clean out Ac drain line:

  • Turn off Your AC
    Before you begin with the cleaning, make sure that your AC has been switched off.
  • Locate The Drain Pipe
    These are typically located outside and can be in white, black, or grey color. Follow this pipe to see if it connects to the condenser unit or the wall next to it.
  • Clear The Clogs
    Before you add the vinegar to the pipe, push out the mold and debris using a stiff, thin wire brush. This may clear out the drain line to some extent and push it to the end of the line, which is why you will need to add vinegar.
Call American Pride AC for a full service checkup on any AC or Furnace system at (865) 604-6293.
  • Pour The Vinegar
    Use ¼ cup of vinegar and pour it into the drain pipe. If you have distilled vinegar, that's even better since it's more acidic. You can either pour through the drainpipe or let it sit in the pipe for better results.
  • Flush Out The Pipe
    Now, flush out the pipe of the debris and vinegar with water. See if the water is draining through the pipe easily. If it is, then your pipe is completely clean.

Alternative Method

An alternative method to pouring vinegar is using a wet or dry vacuum. You will need to attach the vacuum to the pipe with the help of duct tape. This will suck out all the mold and debris. Turn it on for a few minutes and then turn it off. Remember to remove the paper filter in the pipe before attaching the vacuum. You will still need to drain the pipe with water after this process.

Final Words

If these methods do not sufficiently clean out AC drain line, then it means that you require a more robust solution. This is where reliable HVAC technicians, mainly American Pride Air Conditioning services, come in. With their expertise and years of professional experience, you can get your drain pipe cleaned out by them efficiently in no time. Contact them today for an estimate!

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