Air Conditioning Repair: Preventing Flood Damage

Air Conditioning Repair: Preventing Flood Damage

Repairing worn-out A/C units is essential. Air conditioners can cause flooding damage to your home if they are not working properly. Water can leak from your air conditioning unit if drain lines are improperly installed or are allowed to clog. Neglected condensate pumps can malfunction and cause flooding as well. 

Common Causes of A/C Water Leakage

  • Faulty Drain Pipes and Fittings

  • Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

  • Damaged Condensate Pan

  • Improper Installation of P-Trap and Air Vent

Most A/C units will be connected to two drain pipes. The primary drain pipe is connected to the plumbing of the structure the AC repair Tampa. The secondary pipe is considered an emergency pipe. It usually runs through the attic and terminates outside the building.

If the A/C unit has not been properly maintained, drain pipes and fittings can loosen and leak. It is important to verify that you have a secondary drain line. This precautionary measure can prevent flood damage to your home, and is especially important if the A/C unit is located in the attic.

Air conditioners work by drawing hot air over coils cooled with refrigerant. This cools the air, which is then passed through vents to cool the building. This process causes condensation which results in water. The water is drained from the A/C unit via a condensate line going from the drain pan to the exterior of the structure. Check to make sure that the condensate drain pan is not damaged and leaking.

If gravity is not sufficient to drain water away from the A/C unit, then a condensate pump will be used. Malfunctioning condensate pumps can cause water to back up instead of properly draining away from the building. Clogged drain lines can also cause flood back. Maintain the condensate pump and check and replace air filters to prevent the likelihood of flooding.

It is important that the air vent comes before the p-trap in HVAC installation to prevent flooding. If this process is reversed, it will create a vacuum which will make it difficult for the unit to properly drain. Contact a professional if you notice any signs of liquid leaking from your A/C unit. Acme Electrical Service is one of the best HVAC companies Tampa.

CHRIS MACCARON