Central AC Drip Pan filling up?

Question

Our Central AC Drip pan in the attic is filling up. It has been bone dry for years until this spring. What are some possible trouble shooting tips so I don't have to call out a professional for something I can fix myself? Any help would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Also you can check into an automatic cut off switch to be installed. This will prevent the water from overflowing and leaking through the ceiling.

Manufacturers suggest getting the air conditioner "tuned-up" every year. The company will clean the coils, which cause the build-up, and check freon levels, etc. Good investment.

Answer 2

AC units usually have two condensate drains. The normal drain that is usually connected to the sewer along with all of the other drains in your apartment. The second drain is the emergency drain and it typically drains into the drain pan below the air handling unit. The drain from this pan usually goes directly outside to some visible point. It is done this way so you can see it dripping and know that the normal drain is not working properly. The usual problem is a blockage of the normal drain either by dirt, algae or mold. As long as the emergency drain isn't plugged, you are okay but the normal drain needs to be checked out and cleared of any blockage. Sometimes a cup of bleach poured into the normal drain line will clear up any algae type blockage.

Answer 3

obviously your drain pipe is clogged. You should have a drain pipe leading to the outside of the house or connected to a major drain pipe within the house. Disconnect your drain pipe at the unit up in the attic and run a water hose at full blast thru it to unclog the pipe. While you are up in the attic you may want to consider a backup drain pipe. About one foot from the unit on your existing drain pipe, cut the pipe (hopefully PVC) and install a "Y" PVC adapter and run another line along the old line to the drain outside or main drain. They also sell AC drip pan with the necessary coupling to install a drain line directly off the drip pan. At all times make sure the drain line is lower than the unit to ensure a smooth flow of water otherwise you will have a full drip pan. Good Luck!

Answer 4

The drain line is stopped up. Once you get it unclogged I would suggest you go down to your local HVAC supply house and ask for some A-Coil Pan Pills. They help keep the pan draining and they stop the musty smell from the vents.

Answer 5

the tube that takes the water out is plugged shut down the ac pull the tube out from unit get a long rod that will fit in the tube and snake it out