A Florida Plumber Explains How to Clean Your AC Drain Line With Vinegar

Your air conditioning system and parts of your plumbing systems have condensate drain lines that remove excess moisture. When it’s working properly, the condensate drain will channel fluid from the air inside your home to the outside where it belongs. Sometimes, the condensate drain gets dirty and needs cleaning.

Luckily, cleaning the condensate drain is easy and all you need is something you probably already have: vinegar.

Need a plumber to help unclog your AC drain line? Click below to schedule.

Schedule online

How to Tell If Your AC Drain Line is Clogged

Whenever your air conditioning system runs, water should drip from the condensate drain. To check for any issues with your condensate drain, you first need to find it. The condensate drain is the white, plastic PVC pipe located outside your home near the compressor. Once you find the condensate drain, if no water is dripping from it, the drain might be clogged.

How to Clean an AC Drain Line Using Vinegar in 5 Steps

Even if your condensate line is blocked, fixing the problem is easy. All you need are a few extra minutes, a little elbow grease and some distilled vinegar.

Materials

• ¼ Cup Distilled Vinegar

Directions

Step 1. Locate the drain line (look for a PVC pipe).

Step 2. Remove the drain line plug (the cover of the drain line).

Step 3. Pour in a ¼ cup of distilled vinegar. The acidity in vinegar kills algae and bacteria, but keep in mind that it may take a few hours to remove the clog if it is severe.

Step 4. Repeat the process until the drain is clear.

Step 5. Check and clean your drain lines once a month to keep your condensate line free of algae buildup.

Call Climate Design for AC Service in Tampa Bay

At Climate Design, we want you to experience the ultimate in home comfort. That’s why we provide an extensive list of high-quality products and services to keep your air conditioning running smoothly. Got AC troubles? Give us a call today or schedule a service appointment online.