How Much Water Should Drain from Air Conditioner

More than just removing the heat is involved in air conditioning. An air conditioner’s humidity extraction function is similarly vital. Interior air that is damp stores heat energy more effectively and is more difficult to cool. The occupants like dry air since it is cooler.

The moisture condensed from the air by the evaporator coil, on the other hand, has to go somewhere. The condensate drain pipe in most homes transports water to a drain outside the house or to a connection with the domestic sewer. The question is, how much water should drain from the air conditioner? Let’s dig deeper.

How Much Water Should Drain from Air Conditioner inside

The evaporator coil of a residential central air conditioner will send around 5 gallons of water down the drain every day in an arid region where relative humidity is considerably below 50% most of the time. However, in humid climates, the drain pipe can carry up to 20 gallons each day.

Yes, it is a normal condition. Your climate may be too dry, or your system may not be functioning properly, if water is not draining. Call a professional if condensate is backing up into your home, since there could be a clog or a damaged drain pan.

how much water should drain from air conditioner

Only if your condensation line becomes clogged or backs up will your air handler drain excessive amounts of water. This could result in water damage, mold, and wood rot surrounding your air handler.

If your AC shows signs of clogged condensation lines, you can try to unclog it yourself. Pour 1/3 cup of vinegar down the condensate line every 1-3 months to prevent it from becoming backed up or clogged. If your condensate line is plugged, suction the clog out with a wet/dry shop vacuum.

You could, on the other hand, have a rusty or damaged drain pan. The drain pan is in charge of collecting condensation from the evaporator coils and transferring it to the condensate line.

How Much Water Should Drain from Portable Air Conditioner

Portable air conditioners must be maintained on a regular basis in order to perform correctly. Draining the condensate tank is one of the most vital tasks to keep your portable air conditioner working.

When Should I Drain My Portable Air Conditioner?

You may need to drain your portable air conditioner as frequently as every 8 hours, depending on the humidity in your room. The amount of water is usually filled up the tank.

However, you won’t need to drain your portable air conditioner as frequently as this. Even if you live in a dry climate, you should check the tank of your portable air conditioner at least once a month. It will allow you to inspect the tank of your portable air conditioner for any symptoms of mold.

How Do I Drain My Portable Air Conditioner?

You can use a hose, drain it in a pan, or even utilize a condensate pump to drain water from your portable air conditioner.

If you wish to drain water from your portable air conditioner, keep in mind that not all of them come with a hose. So, before you choose this approach, read the manual. Drain hoses can be left connected to the unit and rely on gravity to drain the water, which means the hose must travel downhill.

You can also drain using a pan. Unplug the unit and turn off all power before you begin. Place a pan exactly beneath your unit’s drain port, which is situated in the back. Allow the unit to empty by unplugging it.

Condensate pumps can also drain water without relying on gravity because they are plugged into the AC unit. One hose connects the pump to the AC unit, while the other is attached to the pump with an open end to drain the water.

You now know how much water should drain from the air conditioner, and sure, it is a lot of water, and it would be a shame to waste it. Keep in mind that you can reuse this water for cleaning purposes or maybe try to look up for more ideas on how to use AC water for a better purpose.

Gravatar Image
AirconMag is an experienced author and Air Conditioner expert. With years of practical experience in the field authored several informative articles on various aspects of AC unit, including installation, maintenance, and repair