The condensate line is one of the most important components of your HVAC system. As air is heated or cooled inside your HVAC system, humidity is released. This humidity eventually turns into condensation that must have somewhere to go. Enter the condensate line, which essentially functions as a drain line taking that moisture outside of the home or off your roof.
Condensate lines are of particular importance during periods of heavy heating or cooling. Condensate lines are typically made of plastic (commonly PVC). It connects directly to the HVAC unit and leads outdoors 9or off the roof) often through an exterior wall. Your condensate line keeps moisture from building up inside your home, and specifically inside your HVAC unit. Moisture is the enemy of any functioning appliance as it can lead to mildew, mold spores, and corrosion.
The worst thing that can happen to your condensate line is that it can become clogged by dust, dirt or debris. Water can’t move through a clogged drain line efficiently enough to keep it from backing up, and moisture inside your HVAC system can result in a litany of issues.
Condensate lines are traditionally placed to discharge the water where you can see it. I have mine running into a empty trashcan with wheels so I can re-use it daily on our garden. If you ever notice that the moisture has stopped exiting the condensate line (and you are still using the AC) its time to call a HVAC professional.
Hope this helps, and we look forward to working with you again soon 🙂