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A Comprehensive Introduction To Aircon Unit Drain Lines

Condensate drain lines are one of the most essential parts of the aircon unit that ensures smooth and efficient operations of your aircon units. In other words, they play a vital role in making sure that your room is cooled efficiently.

Humidity will be released when air is cooled or heated in your aircon unit, which ultimately trunks into condensation. The condensation will then have to leave the aircon unit through the condensation drain line outdoors to prevent the buildup of water in your entire aircon unit.

What is the aircon unit condenser Drain Line?

Typically made up of plastics or metals, the drain line connects the aircon unit to the drains outside one’s home or the household sewers. It channels condensation away from your aircon unit into the drain. Most drain lines make use of gravity to transport moisture away however some aircon units do utilize pumps to do the job to increase efficiency.

Wondering why your AC is leaking? Click the link to find out more.

Functions of a Drain Line:

It prevents the build-up of moisture from condensation inside your aircon unit and your home.

When air is cooled in the aircon unit, humidity is released which causes the condensation of water. As a result, water needs to be re-directed away from the aircon unit to prevent the collection of water in the aircon unit.

If moisture continues to be collected in the space of the aircon unit, it can result in a build-up of mold, algae, or even corrosion of metal parts. If not dealt with, the drain line will clog up and there will be a rise of humidity in the household as well as the possibility that your health can be affected since the air is unclean. Structural damage could also occur as pools of water formed around your aircon unit can potentially damage certain interiors of your home. Do take note that measurements and specifications of the drainpipe are imperative in ensuring that the water flows and evaporates easily to prevent the buildup of moisture.

Common Problems Affecting Drain Lines

As mentioned above, it is important to prevent the buildup of moisture inside the aircon unit as well as your home. The efficiency of your aircon unit will be greatly reduced. In more severe situations, it damages your aircon unit, causing it to shut down.

The buildup of moisture can also cause ice to form which leads and adds to clogged drain lines. Do take note that the formation of ice can result in extensive damage to the aircon unit.

Apart from new aircon units which contain technology that automatically switches off the aircon unit when moisture collects, it is often hard to determine the reason your aircon unit is malfunctioning/ not operating optimally. With that, it is strongly recommended to contact a professional aircon servicing company to conduct a check on your aircon unit on a regular basis.

How does clogs form?

In addition, water accumulated contains tiny air particles as well as bacteria. When water drips out into the drain floor, some of the moisture left behind stimulates the growth of mold and algae. Not only that, the collection of air particles of dust and debris in the condensate drain pipes also contributes to the blockage formed. Do be warned that there could be insects nests in your aircon unit pipes if you have not used your aircon unit for a long period of time.

How do I know if there is a clog?

Most air handlers are able to detect and shut down the aircon unit automatically and some high-technology ones are even able to send messages to the user. Otherwise, if you notice water dripping through the vents or your ceiling, it is highly likely that there is a major pileup which leads to the blockage. When this happens, turn off the power of your aircon unit at once and contact a professional aircon servicing company to have your aircon unit looked at.

What to do when the drain line is blocked?

Here are some simple steps you can follow to clear out any visible blockage:

  1. Switch off the power to the aircon unit.

  2. Find the drain line, these are mostly located outdoors, near to the condenser unit.

  3. Wearing protective gloves, use a small stiff brush to clear out any blockage seen.

  4. Use a vacuum cleaner to suck any dislodged blockage and remove accumulated moisture.

Click here to find out the difference between DIY cleaning and professional aircon servicing company cleaning services.

About 338aircon.sg

It’s always a good time to talk about the common issues that aircon units have. This way, you’ll be able to spot if there are problems with your unit or not and prepare for its replacement accordingly. If you require our aircon servicing services, Whatsapp us at +65 9222 4141 for a fast and transparent quote.

338 Aircon Servicing Singapore provides an extensive range of Aircon Services including Aircon Servicing, Aircon Repairs, Aircon Installation of the best aircon brands, Chemical Overhaul, Gas Top-up, Aircon Leaking Water, and Aircon Not Cold Fix, and more. We have a team of professional technicians who are equipped with vast knowledge and experience in the Aircon industry. 

We have over 15 years of experience in dealing with aircon works and have completed thousands of aircon works for both residential (Landed, Condo, and HDB) and commercial. We are a highly recommended Aircon Company in Singapore, with many delighted customers and reviews over the years on Google and Facebook.

WhatsApp us at +65 9222 4141 for a transparent quotation and honest pricing for all your aircon needs or Call us at +65 9222 4141. We offer a fast and efficient service to serve any of your aircon needs!  

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