When Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing talks about water lines as part of HVAC systems, there is sometimes a confused reaction. After all, why does an air conditioner need a water supply? In this case the purpose isn’t to supply water, but rather to get rid of water taken out of the air by the air conditioner in your Waterford, MI or Oxford, MI home.
How it Works
What we are really talking about is a drain line to dispose of the water. Without this drainage system, the humidity (water) taken out of the air by the air conditioner would have no place to go. It would either damage your home or the valuable HVAC system. In most systems PVC pipes are used to drain the water either to a location outside the house or sometimes to a household drain. For units installed below grade (basements for example) there is often a condensate pump that lifts the water up and out of the home.
Why You Should Care
If the condensate drain system isn’t a part of regular HVAC service, there can be disastrous consequences. I have one example from a family I know quite well. Their 2nd floor air handler is installed in the attic. Somehow the PVC drain line got clogged without them knowing. I mean, who goes into the attic to check the air handler except to change the filter every 90 days? The first hint of a problem was condensate water dripping into the bathroom and bedroom below, leaving behind unsightly water stains on the ceilings and walls.
We’re Talking About a Lot of Water
You may be shocked to know how much condensate is produced by your air conditioner. During a humid Michigan summer. It can be anywhere from five to 20 gallons of water every day. That’s enough to do some serious water damage if it’s not properly drained. By the way, here’s a little tip to make you feel green: If possible, have the condensate water drain into a barrel or other reservoir and use it for watering plants and landscaping.
Making Sure It Doesn’t Happen to You
The potential for damage is why the condensate water line is always a part of seasonal HVAC service performed by our Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing technicians. Additionally, you can help. Once or twice during the cooling season disconnect the condensate line from the air handler and pour a cup of bleach into the water line. This will clean the line and prevent the growth of mold that can cause blockages.
Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Has Answers
Also ask Kotz about a safety shutoff switch. It’s installed in the pan beneath the air handler, and when it senses the presence of water the air conditioner is automatically shut down until the problem is fixed. Call Kotz now to schedule your HVAC service appointment to make sure the condensate water line isn’t about to wreak havoc in your Waterford, MI or Oxford, MI home. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get more great information like this.
