How to Clean Condensation in a Drain

Condensation drain overflow can flood a basement or garage if left unchecked.

Refrigeration units for air conditioners and other cooling systems generally have a condensation drain. Moisture from the surrounding air collects on the cold parts and typically falls into a condensation collection tray. Dust particles and other debris in the air often cause flow blockages in the condensation drain. Float sensors in the clogged condensation drain may cause the coolant system to automatically shut off. Clean the condensation from an overfilled drain pipe to get it flowing again.

Things You'll Need

• 1.5 HP Wet/Dry Vacuum

Instructions

1. Plug the wet/dry vacuum into an electrical outlet where the hose nozzle can reach the end of the condensation drain pipe.

2. Attach the hose on the wet/dry vacuum to the end of the condensation drain. Cup your hand around the end of the drain and press the nozzle into your cupped hand to form a seal, if the nozzle end and drain end have unmatched diameters.

3. Switch on the wet/dry vacuum. Hold the vacuum hose nozzle in place securely to keep a tight seal with the drain. Empty the contents of the vacuum reservoir and continue until all condensation is cleaned out.

Tips & Warnings

• Kill mold and algae in the condensation drain with chlorine bleach in liquid or tablet form. Add a couple tablets or capfuls of bleach to the condensation tray and allow the system to drain as usual.

• More powerful wet/dry vacuum units may cause damage to cracked or structurally weakened condensation drain pipes.

References

• Frugal Dad: How To Unclog Air Conditioner Drain
• Easy Klear: Air Conditioning Water Leak
• Drainfield: Clog