Keeping the A/C Drain Line Clean Helps With Performance

8/14/2025

Keeping the A/C drain line clean helps with performance

Did you know your air conditioner not only cools your home, but also plays an important role in controlling humidity during the cooling process? To do that, your air conditioner uses a condensate drain, sending excess moisture there as it is removed from the home’s air. Obstructions in the drain line can prevent the A/C from properly dehumidifying the home, and make the system less efficient.

HOW CLOGS OCCUR

Over time, organic material can build up in a condensate line due to the moist conditions, resulting in a sludgy clog. Water can then back up behind the clog into the drain pan, eventually spilling out of the pan and onto the floor. This type of leak is preventable, but it often gets to a pretty advanced stage before homeowners realize there is a problem. For this reason, regular maintenance is very important. Your HVAC technician will be able to spot any signs of a problem before it gets to a more costly stage.

LOCATING AND CLEANING THE CONDENSATE LINE

You will likely find a small, dripping pipe located near the outdoor A/C unit. There are some tasks that a homeowner might want to tackle, and which might seem easy, but are often best left to the professionals.

While regular maintenance is essential, you can help your A/C perform efficiently and help increase its service life by looking out for any signs of problems and contacting your Tempco. The sooner a problem is addressed, the less likely it will be that other parts of the system will be affected, and the less costly it will be also.

Tempco Heating and Air Conditioning Co. provides experienced service to assist with drain line or any other HVAC-related problem. Call us at (847) 670-7000 for more information or to schedule an appointment.