Your central air conditioning system has many components and features that work in harmony for the unit to operate accordingly and keep your home comfortable, removing humidity and keeping it cool during the hot summer months. When one of the parts, even the smallest detail is out if alignment or not functioning efficiently, a chain of events are set in motion. Leaving the issue unresolved will only make the underlying problem worse and other problems will grow. The more you know concerning the central air and the various components can help you find the root of any issues as they come up. With that in mind, we at NY NJ A/C Connection would like to expound on the drainage system of your air conditioning system.
Air Conditioning Condensation Problems
Condensation is a natural byproduct of the air conditioner’s cooling process. Humidity extraction is a primary segment of the treatment because dry air holds less heat energy which allows the air conditioning to perform the cooling process. When the heat is pulled from the air after the blower extracts warm air out through the evaporator coils, condensation is actually produced very quickly. To catch the condensation, there is a pan that is placed under the coils which will feed the moisture to a line that connects to the sewer. The drainage system can potentially experience some problems such as damaging leaks, mold growth, and obstructions which then in turn cause overflowing, contributes to poor indoor air quality, and even result in the air conditioner to shutoff. Though this isn’t an extraordinarily common problem, it is worth mentioning because the potential is high.
Mold in Central Air Conditioner & Vents
When the drainage system is having difficulty, other problems manifest that show symptoms of malfunction. Fixed below the evaporator coils where the heat is pulled and moisture is produced actually provides the perfect conditions for mildew and mold. The biological growth that overwhelms the drain, the drain line or the drain trap can become easily blocked. More damage can be derived from the water from the blocked drains that causes the pan to dishevel or overflow. As well as excessive damage should the pan itself become damaged or missing. Mold spores are microscopic and when these mold spores settle in the interior and exterior of your home it is then introduced into the air duct system; which then gives them the ability to connect virtually anywhere, including in your air conditioning unit, next to the evaporator coils and condensate drains. Usually needing dark, warm, moist areas and a food supply such as dust, mold spores will mature into mold under these right conditions and thrive. Mold can grow quickly and in the drainage system, mold will flourish, leading to harmful toxins being released in the air. After long term exposure people, mold can become ill and especially those with asthma or allergies.
U Trap in HVAC Systems
The U-trap in the drain line just outside the air handler to cycle the condensation, the U-trap found under the kitchen or bathroom sink is similar to that in the condensate drain. The U-trap is designed to prevent the sewer gases from reaching the air handler through the drain pipe. If the sewer gases erupt the first thing that occurs is the dry condensate drain trap detects noxious odors that have emitted from the air conditioner supply vents which is then past into the building. The sensor will cut off power to the air conditioner in the event of overflowing. If the problem has progressed to this extent, a professional is needed to clean, adjust and repair for efficiently operating condensate lines.
AC Inspections, Repairs & More in Manhattan, New York City
If you are having problems that you believe are due to drainage problems in your air conditioner, contact the experts of NY NJ A/C Connection and let us do the rest.