Observation: AC Condensate line is partially obstructed
Explanation: The condensate drainage line, used to direct water from the furnace (HVAC) to a drain, is noted to be partially obstructed. Conditions typically noted include: a) debris is collecting in the condensate line; b) the line is kinked or pinched, forming a constriction to the free flow of the condensate; c) the lift pump is clogged or not operating.
Impact / Consequences: A blockage in the condensate drain line may result in a back-up of water into the condensate drain system of the furnace. This can result in a water damage to the furnace, and possibly expensive repairs should damage occur to critical components in the furnace. The drain line should be cleared, to prevent water damage to the furnace, and to prevent water leaks that could damage stored items or adjacent surfaces.
SUMMARY:
All air conditioners, through normal operation, produce condensate; liquid formed when water vapor (humidity) comes in contact with cool surfaces (dew point). When the air is drawn from a home’s interior, it is blown across the evaporator coil, cooling the air. The air reintroduced into the home is also dryer, due to water vapor removal by condensation. The condensation drips from the coil into a pan and must then be routed to the exterior of the home; this is normally accomplished by gravity (through downward sloping piping) or a lift pump (where downward sloping piping is not an option). It is essential that the condensate be efficiently removed from the indoor coil unit. Failure to do so, due to an obstruction in the line or lift pump issue, will cause a back up of condensate which can damage the unit, create moisture damage and promote mold growth.
Condensate lines are easily checked during the normal operation of the AC systems. Once you verify which type of condensate removal system you have (gravity or pump), check the drain line outside to see if water is weeping out. Also, you can often look into the unit when you remove the filter to see if there are signs of standing water or water damage. Many AC systems have an access port allowing the introduction of a cleaning fluid into the line ( check owner’s manual), to keep interior pipe obstructions from building up. Also, make sure the area around the exterior drain line is kept clear of obstructions and vegetation build up.
BEACHSIDE Home Inspection is a full service home inspection company located in Brevard Country Florida, serving Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, Satellite Beach, Indialantic, Indian Harbour Beach, Melbourne Beach, Melbourne, and Palm Bay.
We are also a proud member of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (www.nachi.org).
