Untreated condensation leaks in furnaces can result in water damage and costly repairs, especially during the harsh winter months when HVAC systems work hard.
Today’s article will guide you in identifying its cause and provide step-by-step instructions for fixing it yourself. Today’s blog will also go over some useful tips that you can use to prevent future leaks.
If you don’t feel comfortable tackling the task by yourself, you can click the following link to schedule a tune-up with some of Siloam Springs, AR’s top HVAC contractors: https://andersonair.com/service-areas/siloam-springs/.
Identification of Condensation Leak Causes
Look out for the following signs if you think that you’re experiencing a condensation clog:
Clogged Condensate Drain
Clogs in condensate drains can often lead to furnace leaks. As your heating or cooling system operates, moisture builds up that needs to be released through drainage pipes; when this drain is blocked up by debris or blocked entirely by blockages of various forms, water pools around furnace components or freezes on air conditioner coils causing furnace leakage and even air conditioner coil ice formation.
Damaged Condensate Pump
Faulty condensate pumps can lead to furnace leaks. Their job involves pumping away water that has been collected in drains. Signs that something’s wrong includes unusual noises, visible cracks or leaks in their construction, and trouble turning it on and off.
Improper Filters Can Lead To Condensation Leaks
Using an improperly sized air filter may result in condensation leakage issues. Too small of an air filter allows particles and debris into your HVAC system and causes clogs; too large can obstruct proper ventilation flow and airflow.
Fixing Condensation Leaks
Here’s a quick rundown of how you can fix a condensation leak:
Clearing the Condensate Drain
Before turning off the power to your furnace and finding its drain line attached to the condensation pan, locate its drainage line using a wet/dry vacuum or pipe brush and identify any visible obstructions preventing its flow.
Use a wet-dry vacuum or pipe brush to remove obstructions sufficiently; when this does not suffice, flushing out with water may be required to clear them.
Replacing the Condensate Pump
Switch off the power for the HVAC system and locate your condensate pump before purchasing and installing a compatible replacement. Test out this new pump by turning back on power to ensure there are no further leaks before turning it back on again and testing out how well the new one performs.
Installing and Replacing Air Filters
Before purchasing and replacing air filters, consult with your furnace manufacturer or HVAC specialist and select an air filter recommended by them. Afterward, replace with one that fits properly; check and change every 1-3 months depending on usage and then check again regularly until done so again.
Prevent Future Leaks
Make use of the following tips if you’d like to prevent condensation leaks from occurring in the future:
Ongoing Condensate Drain and Pump Inspections and Clean-ups
To prevent future leaks, regular inspection and cleanings of the condensate drain and pump should occur to eliminate potential clogs or overflow. Also, check that your float switch is functioning as intended.
Replace Air Filters on an Annual Basis
Replacing air filters every three months or as necessary is vital in maintaining optimal airflow conditions and minimizing condensation leakage risks. Doing this helps avoid debris build-up while simultaneously improving ventilation rates to protect against condensation leakage issues.
Schedule Annual Maintenance Visits
Make annual appointments with professional HVAC technicians who will inspect and clean the condensate drain and pump, replace air filters as necessary, and address any potential issues which could cause water damage.
Conclusion
At some point, you should consider upgrading your HVAC system to gain benefits such as healthier living space, lower bills, and enhanced airflow.
Fixing a condensation leak in your furnace requires identifying its cause and taking appropriate actions. Preventative maintenance such as inspecting and cleaning condensate drains and pumps, replacing air filters regularly, and scheduling professional visits may help avoid leaks altogether.
Control humidity levels in your home with proper ventilation and drainage to decrease moisture build-up while seeking professional assistance to limit further damage.
