Air conditioning systems produce water. It’s referred to as “condensate” because it’s created by the warm, humid house air condensing back into a liquid. Cool air can’t hold as much moisture as warm air. Cooling the return air as it passes through the air handler evaporator coils makes it surrender it gaseous water. This can be up to 10-15 gallons per unit each day. Not managed properly, this condensate can cause water damage and/or shut down the system. Drain lines are connected to a “primary” pan in the air handler. When installed on the return side of the air flow, a trap is needed to keep negative pressure from inhibiting drainage.
Inspect the drain lines for any signs of damage, leaking, or improper slope. The final discharge point should be identified. Condensate drains cannot be connected to plumbing vent stacks. A secondary catch pan should be present under the air handler. It should have a drain line that’s completely separate from any others, or be equipped with a shut-off float switch. Report any water in the catch pan or inside of the air handler. Inspect condensate pumps for damage, overflow, unstable installations, and disconnected float switches.
The condensate line is damaged. This can cause water damage and allow mold or mildew problems. Hire an HVAC technician to provide repairs as needed.
The condensate drain line is leaking. This can cause water damage. Hire an HVAC technician for repairs as needed.
The condensate discharge line is blocked or clogged. This can cause water damage and allow mold or mildew problems. Clean the discharge line.
The overflow drain for the condensate system is not installed. There is water leaking from the overflow line. Hire an HVAC contractor for repairs as needed.
The condensate line does not have a trap installed. This will allow the loss of conditioned air, and can inhibit drainage. Hire an HVAC contractor for repairs as needed.
The condensate discharge point is not in a visible spot. A drainage failure can go unnoticed and allow water damage and mold or mildew problems. Redirect the discharge to a visible location.
The condensate system’s discharge point is improperly located. The condensate should be carried to the exterior and away from the building to prevent water damage and mold or mildew problems. Redirect the discharge away from the structure.
The condensate drain lines from the air handler and the catch pan are connected together. This defeats the purpose of the secondary pan, and may permit water damage and mold or mildew problems. Hire an HVAC contractor to install separate lines from each source to the exterior.
The condensate discharge line is connected to a plumbing vent stack. This is not permitted because septic gases can be drawn into the house air. Hire an HVAC technician to re-route the lines to discharge to the exterior.
There is debris in the condensate catch pan under the air handler. This can block the drain line and cause the pan to overflow. Remove the debris.
The condensate pan is not draining properly and is retaining water. This will encourage corrosion, possible mildew or mold growth, and may allow water damage. Hire an HVAC contractor to make the required repairs.
The condensate catch pan below the air handler is corroded. It is at or beyond its life span, and is a risk for leaks and water damage. Hire an HVAC contractor to make the required repairs.
The condensate catch pan is missing. A pan or a system float switch are required when an air handler is located over finished space. This protects the home from possible water damage. Hire an HVAC contractor to make the required repairs.
The condensate pan’s float switch wires are not connected. This safety device shuts off the system and/or sounds an alarm should the condensate water rise too high due to a drain failure. Hire an HVAC contractor to make the required repairs.
The condensate pump leaks. This can cause water damage and allow mold or mildew problems. Hire an HVAC contractor to repair or replace the pump.
The condensate pump is inoperative. This can cause water damage and allow mold or mildew problems. Hire an HVAC contractor to repair or replace the pump.
The condensate pump’s float switch is not connected, and will not shut the system down when tripped. This device provides a safeguard against water damage if the pump fails and fills with condensate. Hire an HVAC contractor to repair or replace the pump.
The condensate pump is installed in an unworkmanlike manner. It is unstable. This can allow pump and water damage. Hire an HVAC technician for repairs as needed.
