The condensate drain system handles water produced by your central air conditioner: lots of it. Most people would be surprised to know just how much water vapor is extracted from the air by the evaporator coil inside the indoor air handler of your air conditioner. On a humid Indiana day, 20 gallons or more of condensate can be generated. If the condensate drain system doesn’t carry it away properly, serious household water damage can result—often before you’re even aware there’s a problem.
Here are some common condensate drain system issues and how they’re typically dealt with:
Drain Pan Leakage
A wide flat pan situated directly underneath the air handler, the drain pan catches all the liquid condensate dripping off the evaporator coil. A small-diameter pipe attached to the drain pan conveys this water into your household drain system. Typically made of plastic, over time the pan may crack or split and leakage develops. Metal drain pans may rust out, too. If you notice unexplained pools of water on the floor around the indoor component of the air conditioner, contact your HVAC contractor immediately before more damage is done.
Algae/Mold Growth
The drain pan of a central A/C is perfect for growing algae or mold. It’s typically sopping wet and warmed by air from the system blower. Dust including microscopic organic matters is added to the soup, too. Active growing algae or mold in the pan eventually clogs the condensate drain line. As the drain pan overflows, it spills gallons of water into your house as long as the system’s running. If you see spillage and/or standing water in the drain pan, immediately shut down the A/C and call a qualified HVAC service provider.
Dry Drain Trap
A u-shaped trap in the drain line contains water to seal out the reflux of sewer odors. If you notice that pungent smell, you may have a dry trap. An HVAC technician can troubleshoot the cause and refill the trap with water.
Serving the Wabash Valley since 1922, Paitson Bros. experienced service techs are ready to resolve any condensate drain issues.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Terre Haute, Indiana about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about condensate drain issues and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 812-645-6859.
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Jeff Paitson is a third generation business owner who continues to run the business with the same values that have been passed down from previous generations since 1922.
Jeff’s belief is that the business belongs to Jesus Christ; therefore 10 percent of the company’s profits go toward the Maryland Community Church.
Jeff is a Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce member and in his spare time, he enjoys 
Ethan Rayburn is a lifelong resident of Terre Haute and a 2005 graduate of Purdue University.
An Eagle Scout, Ethan spent four years as a non-profit executive with the Boy Scouts of America before joining Paitson Bros. as a comfort advisor and later General Manager. In that role, Ethan has brought a renewed enthusiasm for customer care, integrity, value, and service to Paitson Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning.
Ethan enjoys singing and was a member of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club. He also enjoys playing and coaching soccer, spending time with his family and two young boys, and volunteering his time and resources with his church, Terre Haute First Baptist Church, which he has attended from a very young age.
Paitson Bros
1 (812) 232-2347
Serving the Wabash Valley, IN Area Since 1922