When you notice that your AC drain pan is full of water, you should realize that something is wrong with it. That’s why you should act right away to prevent further damage. Your drain pan isn’t supposed to be filled with water.
Don’t underestimate the issue by thinking that it’s a simple matter because it’s not. If you brush it off, you may have to deal with costly repairs later in the future.
Understanding the intricacies of air conditioner maintenance is crucial for homeowners and professionals alike. My extensive experience in HVAC systems and in-depth knowledge of air conditioning units position me as a trusted resource for providing accurate, unbiased, and up-to-date information on this topic.
What Do You Do When Your AC Drip Pan Is Full?
Before investigating the issues of an AC drain pan full of water, you should understand its function. It’s a part that is designed to catch condensation dripping off the AC unit’s evaporator coils.
When the warm air makes contact with the cooling coils, water droplets form and then drip down. Without the pan, the moisture will drip directly into your unit, and it can cause serious damage, not only to the unit but also to the floor.
It’s a good thing that the drain pan is connected directly to the condensation drain lain. Water can then be safely drained from the system and also out of the house. With this mechanism, you won’t have to deal with a full drain pan that overflows with water.
Air Conditioner Drain Pan Keeps Filling up
From the explanation above, your drain pan shouldn’t be filled with water if everything works well with your unit. However, there are some possible reasons why it is somewhat filled with water.
- Clogged Drain Pipe
When the drainage system isn’t working properly, the pan can’t clear out. It’s quite common if there is a clog within the piping system. A clogged drainage pipe or condensate line is responsible for the water buildup, and this issue happens when you don’t properly maintain or care for your unit.
- Frozen Coil
Another possibility for your pan to be overflowing is the frozen coil. If you suspect this, it’s better to contact a professional service.
- Incorrect Installation
If you perform the wrong installation on the unit, then the parts won’t function properly. This can happen when you have a DIY project (and yet you aren’t a trained technician), you hire an unlicensed technician, or you hire someone with poor skills.
Read also: AC Compressor Tripping After Few Minutes
That’s why you should only hire a professional who has a license, permit, and insurance.
- Low Refrigerant Levels
Every unit should have the proper level, so when it’s low, there’s something wrong with it. Low levels can be caused by refrigerant leaks, terrible maintenance, or poor maintenance.
How Do You Unclog an AC Drain Pan?
You can try unclogging the drain pan, but you must know what causes the blockage. If you read the explanation above, you’ll see that it’s not actually the pan that is causing problems but the drainage system (and line) that is connected to it.
The best thing to do is to dry out the unit and check the drainage. The steps to do so are:
- Turn off the AC: Cut the power supply to prevent any accidents.
- Check for Leakage: Inspect the unit for any signs of leakage.
- Inspect the Drainage Hose: Check if water drips from the drainage hose located at the back of the unit. If it does, open the facet outside the house to remove excess water.
- Clear the Blockage: Clean out any blockages in the drain line to ensure proper water flow.
Read also: Is Water Dripping from AC Dangerous?
Professional Assistance
In any case of doubt, it’s advisable to reach out to a professional service. Attempting to fix the unit on your own might cause further damage. By understanding the facts about an AC drain pan full of water, you can take appropriate action.
Final Words
If in doubt, you should contact a professional service. It’s not advisable to tweak your unit on your own—or you may risk damaging it further. At least you know what to do after understanding the facts about an AC drain pan full of water.
