Hi Dr. Z. Thanks for the video. I have also seen videos of pouring bleach done the clean out of the condensate drain. So I took 1 ounce of bleach and 16 ounces of water and poured it down mine. A few hours later I noticed that the air was not cooling the house and that the condensate was not dripping. I think preceded to use the wet vac and suck it all out. I got some out and it smelled like bleach. Still not getting any dripping. What do you think may have happened? It dripped before.
@michaelobringer I don't know what could have suddenly caused your air conditioner to stop producing condensate. I rather doubt that the bleach was the reason. Bleach isn't the best choice of drain cleaner. It can be hard on the coils.
@Poohmic If you have a condensate pump in you condensate line then you'll want to take apart the condensate pump for cleaning. The pump is going to be located somewhere in you condensate drain, probably near the air handler.
I don't think my AC has a condensate drain. Outside there is a white tube/pipe but it has a power/electrical switch attached to it? We haven't had cool air in over a week, what can we do? Also we have a DiversiTech CP-22 Automatic Condensate Pump inside by the internal ac unit. It's on but not "running" because no water is being pumped into it.
@DrZarkloff Actually, i went into the air vent in the hall and looked up in it and it needed a good cleaning but after getting most of the dust/lent off of the vents its still not clean (it's like really stuck) and when cut on, it freezes really fast. Does this mean it needs more freon whether or not it's cleaned perfectly?
@KiaraRawks You might want to check the air filter to be sure that it's clean. Then if you're getting air flow you might have a refrigerant leak thus causing the evaporator coil to freeze up.
It's late at the moment, but when the sun comes up tomorrow, I'll take photos of the outside and the inside pump and upload them to a video and hopefully you can help me? We haven't had this unit long (maybe a yr or a yr and a half) and just had to spend almost 1,000 $ to get the car fixed so saving as much money is a priority here. I'm already in possession of wet-vac so no problem there.
Hi Dr. I thank you for taking the time to make this video. I have already taken a shop vac to the drain and had just a cup or two of fluid come out but my unit is still leaking when I turn it on. How else can I drain the pipe, if that's the problem... There is a plug on the top of the unit, can I open that up and maybe blow or suck at that point?
Please help, I've noticed we have a strong rush of cold air coming from the sheet metal cavity where the insulated copper tubing exits the evaporator coil. The rubber fitting for the cavity looks to be kind of dangling off and around the copper tubing. I've used some sheet metal tape to seal it off as much as possible (over the rubber fitting) but now there's a small amount of condensation dripping from the area. Payne PG8M
I watched your video and I'm ready to attack this problem but I can not for the life of me find the drain pipe .... I have a rheem rcva-3765as17... its located in a closet inside my home ...(not an appartment & not in the attic). please help. I cant locate the pipe outside either. is it always near the outside unit?
@pivotmaster102 The drain comes out of the air handler. You might have to disconnect the drain pipe at the air handler to clean it. Sometimes the condensate drains into the sewer drain.
Hi Dr. - In my case the builders put the drain tube to come out under the deck of our house so I have to crawl under there to get to it. AND the only thing coming out of the wall is the tube itself, no PVC pipe - so how do I use the dry vac with its wide tube to suck out the guck from the small tube? Thank you!!
DR. i have a split ac unit in my room and recently i noticed water dripping from it, do u think it is a drain blockage issue if so how do i unclog it ang where is this drain located. is this a diy project or do i have to call someone? the model of my ac is mitsubishi mr. slim ms09tw. thanks
Hi Dr. - In my case the builders put the drain tube under the deck of our house so I have to crawl under there to get to it. AND the only thing coming out of the wall is the tube itself, no PVC pipe - so how do I use the dry vac with its wide tube to suck out the guck from the small tube? Thank you!!
Hi Dr. - In my case the builders put the drain tube under the deck of our house so I have to crawl under there to get to it. AND the only thing coming out of the wall is the tube itself, no PVC pipe - so how do I use the dry vac with its wide tube to suck out the guck from the small tube? Thank you!!
I read that bleach can damage some parts. What about using vinegar? I live in Houston, so the algae and slime growth is rapid due to our high humidity.
@roughneck10000 You could have a hole in the primary pan inside of the unit or you could be leaking air from the cabinet, which would make the outside of the air handler to sweat up in a hot attic.
@DrZarkloff Gas furnace. The combustion creates condensate as well. From my understanding the condensate line comes direct from the chamber, so wondering if vacuuming that could cause any negative effects to it. Guess if it aint broke don't fix it and I should just leave it alone. Dust and crap getting in there is probably more an issue with AC as it can get get stuck on the evap coil then get in the pan.
Excellent! Thank you - we received a frantic call from our renters this a.m. You saved us a bunch of money w/your video! Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Thanks Dr. Z! Looks like it was a build up of nasty algae and crud at the elbow....connected under the sink. Replaced all the pvc connections and looks like that has cured my problem. Crossing my fingers! thanks again....
Thanks for the quick response! I suctioned the primary line in the attic and it seemed to work for a while, however this morning I noticed my secondary drain, located over bedroom window was dripping again. Could it be that the clog is closer to the line connected to the bathroom sink? Can I remove the coupling that is connected just above the fixture (on sink) or would that be the extremely messy route? Thanks again....your videos are extremely helpful!
@manueatscack You could cut into the condensate drain closer to the air handler and it might make it easier to repair the pipe after you suck out the drain.
Thanks Dr. Z! Looks like it was a build up of nasty algae and crud at the elbow....connected under the sink. Replaced all the pvc connections and looks like that has cured my problem. Crossing my fingers! thanks again....
Hi, My Primary condensate runs to my bathroom, under the sink. Is it ok to wet/vac (suction) the primary line up in attic? I take it that it would be much easier...and less messy, going this route. Thanks in advance
@topazwind You could cut the condensate drain somewhere and suck out the trash from both directions. You could get a coupling to repair the pipe after you clean it.
I have four units but can only find the outside drain for one of them. Is there any other way to drain out the condesate. My house is one story in Miami FL.
@sultana3 If is possible that you're other condensate drains connect to the one that you can see. The other possibility is that the other drains are connected to the sewer drain.
@mygamebirds It should unless you have a condensate pump in line. If you do then you'll have to make sure that the pump is working and to clear the drain line from the air handler to the condensate pump, too.
@DrZarkloff Thank you for the quick reply, really appreciate it. Do you have a video on how to clean up in the attic as well? I tried vacuming it today and nothing came out. It's a brand new 6gl wet/dry vacuum. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
So you would not recommend using my recovery tank with burned out refrigerant to blow out the drain line from the outside backwards? My customers always complain about the smell. This is my sad attempt at humor. My apologies to the EPA fanatics.
Your refrigerant and condensate lines are buried in the ground? Or am I just seeing things? If so, have you ever had a corrosion problem with the copper being buried like that?
Yes, my line set and condensate drain is under ground. I haven't had any corrosion problem yet. However, I do plan to soon replace my line set when I replace my air conditioner. I'll run the new one above ground.
you would of loved the drain i saw on one unit. it was a horizontal in a crawler, and they ran the drain line in the ports for a vertical set up. water stain all over. and the humidifier drain tube ran down, flat on the dirt, then up hill to the pump.
I have a much larger diameter vacume hose. To reduce it to 3/4 pvc size, I cut off he top part of a water bottle or soda bottle. I put the part of the bottle you drink from on the PVC and the vac hose inside of the bottle from the cut side.
This makes a good inverted funnel and allows me to use a higher power vac.
What do you think of pouring white vinegar in the condensate line at the air handler? What do you use?
I don't pour anything down the condensate drain. I'll usually put tablets in the condensate pan to keep the funk from growing. Then I'll vacuum the drain at least once per year.
Very helpful! We have some minor water damage on our ceiling, which we assumed was from a clogged dryer vent condensing. Turns out we still have dripping water and our AC cut out. Where might our condensing valve be in a two story condo? Thanks for this video!!!!
I am suffering now from a clog condensation tube. The water damage from my unit caused a leak in the ceiling of the condo unit below and mold developed.
I used to work at a ten story hi rise condo on Fort Myers Beach. It always became a finger pointing contest when someone's condensate drain plugged up and caused water damage to the units below. I'm sorry that you didn't see this video sooner.
Just bought a Carrier Infinity a/c unit 2 months ago and today/last night it kept shutting off and we heard water dripping. Checked the condensate drain and it was not running. Saw your video, hooked up the shop vac, and within a minute the unit was running again. Thanks!!!
My window a/c is only about 2 years old. Now it leak water into the house. We looked for a drain plug. There wasn't one. Tried tilting it a little further. Didn't work. could coils be freezing? It is coming out where a rail holding screw goes. Tightened it, but that didn't work either. Put automotive silicone under the rail holder then put it back on and put the screw in it. That slowed the leak down. But, it's less than 2 years old. why is it leaking?????
I dont see a pump...just the white pvc pipe coming from the unit itself. It is 2 years old (trane)....maybe i can try to get a video of it and send it over :) the pipe comes out about 1 foot (curving) then attaches to this black pipe...that is where the drip is..Thanks so much for helping. I like to learn how to do things myself - with your expertise of couse. I will certainly clean the outside line tomorrow...
Please help....I found the condensate line that is outside...Is there something that I need to do inside? The dripping leak is coming from where my pvc pipe meets this black covered hose. There is also a smell that started a few weeks ago, inside. I Thank so much. Love your video! Kim
If you have a condensate pump where the condensate drains into before going outside, you really need to clean the pump in case it's clogged. If the pump reservoir is overflowing then it's possible you'll need to replace the condensate pump.
My AC unit has lots of humidity on it and is started to produce fowl odors. I am guessing this is the cause or a dead animal somewhere. By my air handler. There is a pipe plug that looks to extend vertically out of condensate line that can be removed I'm guessing to blow out the line from inside the house. I was wondering if pouring chlorine or bleach down this line may help also? Or is this not even the condensate!?
I don't recommend using chlorine or bleach. Clorine and bleach can damage metal condensate pans. I recommending using a wet vac to suck out the obstructions from the condensate drains. You might want to check your duct work to see if any critters had gnawed their way in.
Thanks- I just did this and it worked great - even the AC guys who came last year when it overflowed in my attic didn't show me this- wish I had saved myself the grief earlier. Thanks for your public service posting!!!
My condensate drain goes down the exterior wall and a piece of the PVC was missing. I replaced the bottom piece of the PVC pipe and now the drain has stopped dripping. Do you have any suggestions?
How does that first PVC pipe drain out while gravity still exists???... sorry, i mean, tht pipe is sticking straight up from the ground. Where's the pitch?
I used your vacuum cleaner technique but I still think the pipe is clogged. Is there a way I can pour some type of unclogging solution (Liquid Plumber, etc.) into the pipe to unclog it? Do I need to cut the PVC to do this or is there a way to do it without cutting?
If the pipe is still clogged after vacuuming it out then you might have a stubborn piece of trash in the pipe. You might want to use nitrogen to blast it clear or just replace the pipe. You could try liquid plumber but then you're risking some of the product could get into the air handler and start to corrode the aluminum and copper.
are there supposed to be rocks in the drain pan? or does it matter? my son has a spot in his closet thats in the approximety of the drain pipe that looks like there is a leak under the carpet...
I have a house with a basement and the air conditioning line is dripping onto the basement ceiling tiles (little drips here and there forming a 15 ft line).
What is the best way to insulate the line so as to stop the drip damage?
You should use arma-flex. It's also called insul-tube. You can buy it at Johnstone Supply or Baker Distributing or any other air conditioning supplies store in your area.
Nice video. I also have a secondary condensate drain on my upstairs unit. It overflowed the pan while I was away. I had the main line cleaned 6 months ago. Can I pipe the secondary into the main to avoid this pan mess? Is this secondary even necessary?
Thanks for your prompt reply and also thanks for the tip on using the vacuum to clear the condensate lines. I did this today and removed a large deposit of saw dust from one of the lines!! Pretty gross stuff but it certainly did the trick!
Good stuff Dr Z....My unit is in the attic. The condensation line drains out the side of the house via a small hole. When I bought the place a year ago, my home inspector told me I needed an "emergency drain line" installed. Is that really needed if I maintain a clean drain line? If so how much does that cost to install? Can I do it myself?
You could install an emergency pan and drain on your own if your comfortable with doing some basic plumbing. Also, you'll need help lifting your air handler a few inches so that you can place the pan underneath. You might want to ask around and see what they look like.
Absolutely incredible video! I have a quick question. We just installed an HVAC and it's internal, however, it's flesh with the ground...we're worried about the condensation not draining properly because of it having no downward gravitation pull....what do we do? Or does the piping even have to be sloped downward? Thanks!!
my companies policy in ohio is in any blow through coil application remove the trap and install a cleanout. i always use the 90 part of a t and cap off the top, then during service, blow it out from where the cap is with a gallow gun with a co2 cartridge. on air handlers where a trap is needed put a cleanout the same way before the trap. blow out with a gallow gun and co2.
Thank you so much for the presentations! it is really helpful. My primary drain line was found blocked (what I thougt) a couple days ago and I used a wet vac blowing it out. The emergency back-up tray under the condensate box was dried out during the first day after I cleaned the primary drain line. But on second day, more water dripping from the bottom of the condensate box than that of the primary drain line. I was frustrated. What is the problem?
Thank you for the response! That might be the condensate unit that attached to the machine. All the drainage pipes come out from that unit. I will take a video tonight and post online to see what will be the best way to do it. Many thanks!!
Thanks a lot man!
LosReyesSon 4 months ago
@LosReyesSon Thanks for watching.
DrZarkloff 4 months ago
Hi Dr. Z. Thanks for the video. I have also seen videos of pouring bleach done the clean out of the condensate drain. So I took 1 ounce of bleach and 16 ounces of water and poured it down mine. A few hours later I noticed that the air was not cooling the house and that the condensate was not dripping. I think preceded to use the wet vac and suck it all out. I got some out and it smelled like bleach. Still not getting any dripping. What do you think may have happened? It dripped before.
michaelobringer 5 months ago
@michaelobringer I don't know what could have suddenly caused your air conditioner to stop producing condensate. I rather doubt that the bleach was the reason. Bleach isn't the best choice of drain cleaner. It can be hard on the coils.
DrZarkloff 5 months ago
Where is the condensation pump located. I clean out line an condensation still flowing out of line I have put a pan underneath to capture waster
Poohmic 5 months ago
@Poohmic If you have a condensate pump in you condensate line then you'll want to take apart the condensate pump for cleaning. The pump is going to be located somewhere in you condensate drain, probably near the air handler.
DrZarkloff 5 months ago
Dr z what is p- trap
Poohmic 5 months ago
@Poohmic Please take a look at one of my p-traps video.
DrZarkloff 5 months ago
I cleaned my drain but still have condensation leaking onto air handler help
Poohmic 5 months ago
@Poohmic You might want to be sure that you have a P-trap somewhere in your drain.
DrZarkloff 5 months ago
I don't think my AC has a condensate drain. Outside there is a white tube/pipe but it has a power/electrical switch attached to it? We haven't had cool air in over a week, what can we do? Also we have a DiversiTech CP-22 Automatic Condensate Pump inside by the internal ac unit. It's on but not "running" because no water is being pumped into it.
KiaraRawks 5 months ago
@KiaraRawks If the condensate pump is full and the pump isn't pumping it out then you have a problem with the condensate pump.
DrZarkloff 5 months ago
@DrZarkloff Actually, i went into the air vent in the hall and looked up in it and it needed a good cleaning but after getting most of the dust/lent off of the vents its still not clean (it's like really stuck) and when cut on, it freezes really fast. Does this mean it needs more freon whether or not it's cleaned perfectly?
KiaraRawks 5 months ago
@KiaraRawks You might want to check the air filter to be sure that it's clean. Then if you're getting air flow you might have a refrigerant leak thus causing the evaporator coil to freeze up.
DrZarkloff 5 months ago
It's late at the moment, but when the sun comes up tomorrow, I'll take photos of the outside and the inside pump and upload them to a video and hopefully you can help me? We haven't had this unit long (maybe a yr or a yr and a half) and just had to spend almost 1,000 $ to get the car fixed so saving as much money is a priority here. I'm already in possession of wet-vac so no problem there.
KiaraRawks 5 months ago
Hi Dr. I thank you for taking the time to make this video. I have already taken a shop vac to the drain and had just a cup or two of fluid come out but my unit is still leaking when I turn it on. How else can I drain the pipe, if that's the problem... There is a plug on the top of the unit, can I open that up and maybe blow or suck at that point?
hilln35 7 months ago
@hilln35 Check to be sure that you have a p-trap somewhere in the drain.
DrZarkloff 7 months ago
Thank you SO MUCH for this video!!! Sadly I never would have thought to use a shop vac on that -.- Hopefully my leaking issue will go away now!!!
Psychokitty0889 7 months ago
Please help, I've noticed we have a strong rush of cold air coming from the sheet metal cavity where the insulated copper tubing exits the evaporator coil. The rubber fitting for the cavity looks to be kind of dangling off and around the copper tubing. I've used some sheet metal tape to seal it off as much as possible (over the rubber fitting) but now there's a small amount of condensation dripping from the area. Payne PG8M
Thanks!
TkyoJedi 7 months ago
@TkyoJedi You could use some insulation gum instead of tape.
DrZarkloff 7 months ago
I watched your video and I'm ready to attack this problem but I can not for the life of me find the drain pipe .... I have a rheem rcva-3765as17... its located in a closet inside my home ...(not an appartment & not in the attic). please help. I cant locate the pipe outside either. is it always near the outside unit?
pivotmaster102 8 months ago
@pivotmaster102 The drain comes out of the air handler. You might have to disconnect the drain pipe at the air handler to clean it. Sometimes the condensate drains into the sewer drain.
DrZarkloff 8 months ago
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Hi Dr. - In my case the builders put the drain tube to come out under the deck of our house so I have to crawl under there to get to it. AND the only thing coming out of the wall is the tube itself, no PVC pipe - so how do I use the dry vac with its wide tube to suck out the guck from the small tube? Thank you!!
halacious01 9 months ago
DR. i have a split ac unit in my room and recently i noticed water dripping from it, do u think it is a drain blockage issue if so how do i unclog it ang where is this drain located. is this a diy project or do i have to call someone? the model of my ac is mitsubishi mr. slim ms09tw. thanks
Bhama100 9 months ago
@Bhama100 You could use something to suck out the clog from the outside drain pipe.
DrZarkloff 9 months ago
Hi Dr. - In my case the builders put the drain tube under the deck of our house so I have to crawl under there to get to it. AND the only thing coming out of the wall is the tube itself, no PVC pipe - so how do I use the dry vac with its wide tube to suck out the guck from the small tube? Thank you!!
halacious01 9 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Hi Dr. - In my case the builders put the drain tube under the deck of our house so I have to crawl under there to get to it. AND the only thing coming out of the wall is the tube itself, no PVC pipe - so how do I use the dry vac with its wide tube to suck out the guck from the small tube? Thank you!!
halacious01 9 months ago
Great info thanks Dr,Z
vrejian 9 months ago
I did just what you said and my A/C is running full throttle once again..!!
I also went to Lowe's for some "tablets" mentioned in the comments.. they've never heard of them.
Thanks for the info Dr..!!
frekijsimpson 10 months ago
@frekijsimpson Thanks for watching. You'll probably have to get the tablets online or at a HVAC supply store that will sell to you.
DrZarkloff 10 months ago
@DrZarkloff ..I'll be sure to find them one way or another.
Can't thank you enough..!!!!
frekijsimpson 10 months ago
Great info. My unit is in my attic draining to one of my sinks in my bathroom; easy place to hook up the vacuum...thanks
roush2win 1 year ago
I read that bleach can damage some parts. What about using vinegar? I live in Houston, so the algae and slime growth is rapid due to our high humidity.
ufta54 1 year ago
@ufta54 Vinegar would be kinder than bleach. Personally, I'd prefer to use tablets in the primary pan.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
@DrZarkloff What tablets am I looking for when I go to HD or Lowes? What's the active ingredient so I'll know what to look for?
ufta54 1 year ago
@DrZarkloff What kind of tablets do you mean? Can you get them at Lowe's or HD? Thanks for the great video.
ufta54 1 year ago
@ufta54 I don't know if you can find the tablets at Lowes or HD. Any HVAC parts house like Johnstone Supply will have them.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@DrZarkloff : What kind of tablets do you mean? Do you sell them at Lowe's or HD? thanks for the great vid.
ufta54 1 year ago
@DrZarkloff What kind of tablets do you mean? Do you sell them at Lowe's or HD? thanks for the great vid.
brittabutler1 1 year ago
Very nice of you to make this video. I'm having condesation up in the attic on part of my unit that the drip pain isn't catching.
roughneck10000 1 year ago
@roughneck10000 You could have a hole in the primary pan inside of the unit or you could be leaking air from the cabinet, which would make the outside of the air handler to sweat up in a hot attic.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
thanks,this made a quick fix with wet dry vacum.
suppy361 1 year ago
filter drier flow in wrong direction
digidy2k1 1 year ago
Is it a good idea to do this with the furnace condensate too?
redsquirrelftw 1 year ago
@redsquirrelftw Yes, if your furnace has an evaporator coil.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
@DrZarkloff Gas furnace. The combustion creates condensate as well. From my understanding the condensate line comes direct from the chamber, so wondering if vacuuming that could cause any negative effects to it. Guess if it aint broke don't fix it and I should just leave it alone. Dust and crap getting in there is probably more an issue with AC as it can get get stuck on the evap coil then get in the pan.
redsquirrelftw 1 year ago
Great stuff. Most kind of you to put your effort into helping others save some much-needed $. Thank you!
cw4g 1 year ago
@cw4g Thanks for watching.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
Thanks so much! Does the underground pipe ever become clogged, or cause settling? The ground around it is squishy and loaded with mosquitoes
thebonkaub 1 year ago
@thebonkaub It is possible to get ground water to seep into the pipe if you develop a leak.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
Comment removed
thebonkaub 1 year ago
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Great video! Are HVAC condensation pipes ever supposed to be buried? If so, doesn't the soil erode over time?
thebonkaub 1 year ago
Great video! Are HVAC condensation pipes ever supposed to be buried? If so, doesn't the soil erode over time?
thebonkaub 1 year ago
@thebonkaub Many line sets are buried. They should be encased in PVC pipe to prevent corrosion.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
my a/c unit is on the roof and the drain is on the side of the house,,,,,
TheNascarfan14 1 year ago
Excellent! Thank you - we received a frantic call from our renters this a.m. You saved us a bunch of money w/your video! Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
evan346 1 year ago
@evan346 Thanks for watching.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
Thanks Dr. Z! Looks like it was a build up of nasty algae and crud at the elbow....connected under the sink. Replaced all the pvc connections and looks like that has cured my problem. Crossing my fingers! thanks again....
manueatscack 1 year ago
Thanks for the quick response! I suctioned the primary line in the attic and it seemed to work for a while, however this morning I noticed my secondary drain, located over bedroom window was dripping again. Could it be that the clog is closer to the line connected to the bathroom sink? Can I remove the coupling that is connected just above the fixture (on sink) or would that be the extremely messy route? Thanks again....your videos are extremely helpful!
manueatscack 1 year ago
@manueatscack You could cut into the condensate drain closer to the air handler and it might make it easier to repair the pipe after you suck out the drain.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
Thanks Dr. Z! Looks like it was a build up of nasty algae and crud at the elbow....connected under the sink. Replaced all the pvc connections and looks like that has cured my problem. Crossing my fingers! thanks again....
manueatscack 1 year ago
Thanks for the infro.
taveus 1 year ago
@taveus Thanks for watching.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
Hi, My Primary condensate runs to my bathroom, under the sink. Is it ok to wet/vac (suction) the primary line up in attic? I take it that it would be much easier...and less messy, going this route. Thanks in advance
manueatscack 1 year ago
@manueatscack That's probably what I'd do.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
You can always shoot nitrogen through the line also right???
chicagosfinest2k10 1 year ago
@chicagosfinest2k10 Yes, It's all about personal preference.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
your a good man for sharing your info thanks
yourturbinisdirty1 1 year ago
Does not appear to be an exterior condensate pipe on my unit, think it connects to a sewage drain. How would that be cleaned?
topazwind 1 year ago
@topazwind You could cut the condensate drain somewhere and suck out the trash from both directions. You could get a coupling to repair the pipe after you clean it.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
Hey Doc., condensate line cleaning was an excellent tip. your videos are the best. You're
a great asset to the hvac industry.
EDDIEMACification 1 year ago
@EDDIEMACification Thanks
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
What HVAC installers run the condensation this way ?Am I looking at the way people do things on Mars ? This is stupidity !
demmylowther 1 year ago
@demmylowther I wonder sometimes.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
@lep422 It sounds like your condensate drain need a p-trap.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
I have four units but can only find the outside drain for one of them. Is there any other way to drain out the condesate. My house is one story in Miami FL.
sultana3 1 year ago
@sultana3 If is possible that you're other condensate drains connect to the one that you can see. The other possibility is that the other drains are connected to the sewer drain.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
thanks for your help!! now I just need to find a wet/dry vac, as my Safe-T-Switch keeps shutting off my unit
lennyarellano 1 year ago
@lennyarellano You could use a wet/dry vac or a Mighty Pump.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
well at least you enjoy what you do
supersexyroybird 1 year ago
you made a video about a drain
supersexyroybird 1 year ago
@supersexyroybird Yep! I like to make videos about the most mundane stuff.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
the high drain up on my atic is dripping water when we turn on our AC unit. Would this method remedy that as well?
mygamebirds 1 year ago
@mygamebirds It should unless you have a condensate pump in line. If you do then you'll have to make sure that the pump is working and to clear the drain line from the air handler to the condensate pump, too.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
@DrZarkloff Thank you for the quick reply, really appreciate it. Do you have a video on how to clean up in the attic as well? I tried vacuming it today and nothing came out. It's a brand new 6gl wet/dry vacuum. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
mygamebirds 1 year ago
@mygamebirds Unless you live in South Florida, the condensate drain will more than likely be dry this time of year.
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
So you would not recommend using my recovery tank with burned out refrigerant to blow out the drain line from the outside backwards? My customers always complain about the smell. This is my sad attempt at humor. My apologies to the EPA fanatics.
Rueuhy 2 years ago
You really should be using nitrogen or air to blow out condensate drains. My personal preference is using my wet vac.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Not any More!!!Mighty Pump!!
guitargodmister 1 year ago
@guitargodmister Hurray!
DrZarkloff 1 year ago
thanks for the advice.
eyesonlyfd 2 years ago
What about blowing out the guk with CO2 cartridges? Since many drains tie into a household drain going into a sewer.
klabkebash 2 years ago
Condensate drains in Florida normally drain outside. Draining condensate into the sewer is not to building code in most counties.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
That could be why people in FL often find garden snakes and other lizards in their houses, it's a good way for them to enter.
klabkebash 2 years ago
Yeah, lizards mostly.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Your refrigerant and condensate lines are buried in the ground? Or am I just seeing things? If so, have you ever had a corrosion problem with the copper being buried like that?
eggman9713 2 years ago
Yes, my line set and condensate drain is under ground. I haven't had any corrosion problem yet. However, I do plan to soon replace my line set when I replace my air conditioner. I'll run the new one above ground.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
you would of loved the drain i saw on one unit. it was a horizontal in a crawler, and they ran the drain line in the ports for a vertical set up. water stain all over. and the humidifier drain tube ran down, flat on the dirt, then up hill to the pump.
nes4ever69 2 years ago
Sounds like fun. lol
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
That filter drier should be inside @ the evap coil. Could rust and cause leak..
matthewmealy 2 years ago
I do prefer them inside whenever possible. I think that I'll put the new one inside when I replace my air conditioner.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
all your post r very helpfull....thanks
milwatts 2 years ago
Thanks for watching.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
I have a much larger diameter vacume hose. To reduce it to 3/4 pvc size, I cut off he top part of a water bottle or soda bottle. I put the part of the bottle you drink from on the PVC and the vac hose inside of the bottle from the cut side.
This makes a good inverted funnel and allows me to use a higher power vac.
What do you think of pouring white vinegar in the condensate line at the air handler? What do you use?
ibunregistered 2 years ago
I don't pour anything down the condensate drain. I'll usually put tablets in the condensate pan to keep the funk from growing. Then I'll vacuum the drain at least once per year.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Very helpful! We have some minor water damage on our ceiling, which we assumed was from a clogged dryer vent condensing. Turns out we still have dripping water and our AC cut out. Where might our condensing valve be in a two story condo? Thanks for this video!!!!
apopofski 2 years ago
You'll probably have to cut into the condensate drain near your air handler to perform this preventive maintenance.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
I had an inspection done on my 10yr new A/C where the technician quoted that the
"condensate drain was removed & coil drain pan broke. Pan or complete coil needs to be replaced."
He quoted Pan & Drain $950/-
Coil & Drain $1050/-.
What is your opinion and how can I do something to minimize the expense by fixing it myself please ?
coolearth6 2 years ago
You might as well take the coil and drain option as long as it comes with some sort of warranty.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
I am suffering now from a clog condensation tube. The water damage from my unit caused a leak in the ceiling of the condo unit below and mold developed.
ahealthnut2 2 years ago
I used to work at a ten story hi rise condo on Fort Myers Beach. It always became a finger pointing contest when someone's condensate drain plugged up and caused water damage to the units below. I'm sorry that you didn't see this video sooner.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Dr Z buff an run LOL
co2x3 2 years ago
Just bought a Carrier Infinity a/c unit 2 months ago and today/last night it kept shutting off and we heard water dripping. Checked the condensate drain and it was not running. Saw your video, hooked up the shop vac, and within a minute the unit was running again. Thanks!!!
radiologystud 2 years ago
Thanks for watching.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
I'm really not a AC guy. but this is good info to know. Thanks
plumberx 2 years ago
Thanks. It could save you a lot of headaches.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
My window a/c is only about 2 years old. Now it leak water into the house. We looked for a drain plug. There wasn't one. Tried tilting it a little further. Didn't work. could coils be freezing? It is coming out where a rail holding screw goes. Tightened it, but that didn't work either. Put automotive silicone under the rail holder then put it back on and put the screw in it. That slowed the leak down. But, it's less than 2 years old. why is it leaking?????
waterwart 2 years ago
You might want to take it out of the window and give it a good cleaning. You could have dirt building up around the drain.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
I dont see a pump...just the white pvc pipe coming from the unit itself. It is 2 years old (trane)....maybe i can try to get a video of it and send it over :) the pipe comes out about 1 foot (curving) then attaches to this black pipe...that is where the drip is..Thanks so much for helping. I like to learn how to do things myself - with your expertise of couse. I will certainly clean the outside line tomorrow...
kkillaly 2 years ago
Dr :)
Please help....I found the condensate line that is outside...Is there something that I need to do inside? The dripping leak is coming from where my pvc pipe meets this black covered hose. There is also a smell that started a few weeks ago, inside. I Thank so much. Love your video! Kim
kkillaly 2 years ago
If you have a condensate pump where the condensate drains into before going outside, you really need to clean the pump in case it's clogged. If the pump reservoir is overflowing then it's possible you'll need to replace the condensate pump.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Man who gave this less than five stars? Thanks.
My AC unit has lots of humidity on it and is started to produce fowl odors. I am guessing this is the cause or a dead animal somewhere. By my air handler. There is a pipe plug that looks to extend vertically out of condensate line that can be removed I'm guessing to blow out the line from inside the house. I was wondering if pouring chlorine or bleach down this line may help also? Or is this not even the condensate!?
croniky 2 years ago
I don't recommend using chlorine or bleach. Clorine and bleach can damage metal condensate pans. I recommending using a wet vac to suck out the obstructions from the condensate drains. You might want to check your duct work to see if any critters had gnawed their way in.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Bought a wet vac this morning and it fixed the problem. Thanks again Doc!
croniky 2 years ago
Thanks- I just did this and it worked great - even the AC guys who came last year when it overflowed in my attic didn't show me this- wish I had saved myself the grief earlier. Thanks for your public service posting!!!
MrChefzach 2 years ago
Thanks for watching.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Thanks! Will try.
ForandFam 2 years ago
My condensate drain goes down the exterior wall and a piece of the PVC was missing. I replaced the bottom piece of the PVC pipe and now the drain has stopped dripping. Do you have any suggestions?
ForandFam 2 years ago
Try to use a wet vac to clear the drain.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Most homeowners insurance will not cover a major repair due to backup from the drain pipe. They claim you failed to maintain the system.
bozcopcspecialist 2 years ago
How does that first PVC pipe drain out while gravity still exists???... sorry, i mean, tht pipe is sticking straight up from the ground. Where's the pitch?
axionman43 2 years ago
The air handler is higher than the end of the drain pipe.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
I used your vacuum cleaner technique but I still think the pipe is clogged. Is there a way I can pour some type of unclogging solution (Liquid Plumber, etc.) into the pipe to unclog it? Do I need to cut the PVC to do this or is there a way to do it without cutting?
jspassen 2 years ago
If the pipe is still clogged after vacuuming it out then you might have a stubborn piece of trash in the pipe. You might want to use nitrogen to blast it clear or just replace the pipe. You could try liquid plumber but then you're risking some of the product could get into the air handler and start to corrode the aluminum and copper.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
hey jspassen i know of a tool call a drain dog what u do is hook it up to a nitrogen tank and it well unclog it
texasiceman210 2 years ago
Mine drains into a pan. Should this have rocks and dirt in it? if it clogs, can you have a wet spot in your carpet?
pokechamp116 2 years ago
The drain pipe should not have rocks and dirt in it. You could have wet spots on the carpet if the condensate drips on it.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
are there supposed to be rocks in the drain pan? or does it matter? my son has a spot in his closet thats in the approximety of the drain pipe that looks like there is a leak under the carpet...
pokechamp116 2 years ago
I don't think the rocks are supposed to be in your drain pan.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Thanks for doing this!
I have a house with a basement and the air conditioning line is dripping onto the basement ceiling tiles (little drips here and there forming a 15 ft line).
What is the best way to insulate the line so as to stop the drip damage?
fruitluvin 2 years ago
You should use arma-flex. It's also called insul-tube. You can buy it at Johnstone Supply or Baker Distributing or any other air conditioning supplies store in your area.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Nice video. I also have a secondary condensate drain on my upstairs unit. It overflowed the pan while I was away. I had the main line cleaned 6 months ago. Can I pipe the secondary into the main to avoid this pan mess? Is this secondary even necessary?
flashman071 2 years ago
It is not recommended to pipe the primary and secondary drains together.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Thanks for your prompt reply and also thanks for the tip on using the vacuum to clear the condensate lines. I did this today and removed a large deposit of saw dust from one of the lines!! Pretty gross stuff but it certainly did the trick!
flashman071 2 years ago
Good going. It's a good idea to clear the condensate drain twice a year.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Good going. It's a good idea to clear the condensate drain twice a year.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Should the ac be turn off when doing the vacuum?
vegasretrovintage 2 years ago
You can turn it off just to be on the safe side.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
I never thought of using a shop vac we always just blow them out with CO2
timothy47129 2 years ago
Good stuff Dr Z....My unit is in the attic. The condensation line drains out the side of the house via a small hole. When I bought the place a year ago, my home inspector told me I needed an "emergency drain line" installed. Is that really needed if I maintain a clean drain line? If so how much does that cost to install? Can I do it myself?
sal26 2 years ago
You could install an emergency pan and drain on your own if your comfortable with doing some basic plumbing. Also, you'll need help lifting your air handler a few inches so that you can place the pan underneath. You might want to ask around and see what they look like.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
...so I don't actually need another separate drain/ptrap just a pan underneath the air handler?
sal26 2 years ago
You need a pan underneath the air handler and a separate drain going outside. No need for a ptrap on the secondary drain.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Absolutely incredible video! I have a quick question. We just installed an HVAC and it's internal, however, it's flesh with the ground...we're worried about the condensation not draining properly because of it having no downward gravitation pull....what do we do? Or does the piping even have to be sloped downward? Thanks!!
mightybeanizzle 2 years ago
That sounds odd. I've never run into an air handler that was installed like that. Yes, the drain has to have a slope
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Thanks for watching.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Thank Dr. Z - We appreciate you help from Kendall, miami
aldodesign 2 years ago
Thanks.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
It sounds like you have a great resume.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
my companies policy in ohio is in any blow through coil application remove the trap and install a cleanout. i always use the 90 part of a t and cap off the top, then during service, blow it out from where the cap is with a gallow gun with a co2 cartridge. on air handlers where a trap is needed put a cleanout the same way before the trap. blow out with a gallow gun and co2.
awy2002 2 years ago
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hvacrdude1 2 years ago
LOL@ 1:37 "YUCK!"
Wecamefromthestars81 2 years ago
Thank you so much for the presentations! it is really helpful. My primary drain line was found blocked (what I thougt) a couple days ago and I used a wet vac blowing it out. The emergency back-up tray under the condensate box was dried out during the first day after I cleaned the primary drain line. But on second day, more water dripping from the bottom of the condensate box than that of the primary drain line. I was frustrated. What is the problem?
MrTXPUP 2 years ago
What do you mean by "condendate box"? Do you mean condensate pump? If you have a condensate pump, you might want to be sure that it's pumping.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Thank you for the response! That might be the condensate unit that attached to the machine. All the drainage pipes come out from that unit. I will take a video tonight and post online to see what will be the best way to do it. Many thanks!!
MrTXPUP 2 years ago
I just posted my video on youtube. The title is "condensate unit leaking problems...?" Thank you!
MrTXPUP 2 years ago
Whats a good way to clean out the duct work in my condo?
good work by the way.
DallasGoldBug
dallasgoldbug 2 years ago
You could call a company that specializes in cleaning duct.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
Comment removed
Wecamefromthestars81 2 years ago
hey could u make some vids on split systems?
coolglen201 2 years ago
I'm always making new videos. I'll probably get to it soon.
DrZarkloff 2 years ago
ok awsome
coolglen201 2 years ago