What’s a safe drain cleaner for your HVAC system and why would you need one? While a central air conditioner and a high-efficiency gas furnace produce cooling and heat, respectively, they also generate water as a byproduct of the process. All that liquid has to be drained away efficiently and effectively. A safe drain cleaner, along with regular annual preventative maintenance by a qualified HVAC service technician can help avoid HVAC clogs.

Where Does the Water Go?

Condensate produced by the air conditioner typically drips down into the condensate drain pan, which is situated beneath the unit, then flows through a drain line connected to the home’s main plumbing drain.  A high-efficiency furnace collects condensate, which then flows through a trap and into a drain line. This line may terminate outside the house or connect to the house plumbing. 

What Happens When Clogs Occur?

When the free flow of condensate is blocked by a clog in the system,  overflows may occur.  The spillage of water indoors may damage the house structure before the problem is noticed. In the case of high-efficiency furnaces, blockage/overflows in the drain system may trigger safety sensors that shut down the furnace and interrupt home comfort in cold weather.  

How to Prevent Clogging with a Safe Drain Cleaner

• A drain cleaner that’s safe means one that won’t damage HVAC components. Standard household drain cleaners are very caustic and not appropriate for use in heating and cooling drain systems.
• To keep the central AC condensate drain system flowing freely, adding a cup or two of white vinegar to the drain pan beneath the unit naturally suppresses algae and mold growth in the pan— a major source of clogs.
• Accessing the drain system of a high-efficiency furnace, however, is more complex and not a DIY task. The best measure to avoid drain clogs in the furnace is regularly scheduled preventative maintenance by a qualified HVAC technician.

For more about using a safe drain cleaner as well as regular preventative maintenance to prevent HVAC clogs, contact the professionals at Powers Heating & Air.