Controlling HVAC condensation is an important part of the air-conditioning process that keeps your home cool and comfortable in hot summer conditions. Humidity holds heat in the air and makes the indoor environment more difficult to cool and less comfortable. On a muggy summer day, a hard-working central air conditioner condenses as much as 20 gallons of water or more.
In certain cases, HVAC condensation can trigger damage to air-conditioning components, as well as to the structure of the house. Keep reading to learn some of the factors involved.
Drip Pan Overflow
Under the indoor air handler, a large shallow pan catches condensation dripping from the AC evaporator coil above. This condensate then flows through a pipe into the home’s drain system. Factors like algae formation or mold growth, however, can cause AC leakage in the drip pan or drain line. As AC cycles continue, the pan soon overflows and damage to the house structure may occur before spillage is noticed. Annual preventive maintenance by a certified air-conditioning technician typically includes an inspection of the drip pan and drainage system to confirm proper operation.
Low Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of air conditioning. If the system’s refrigerant charge is low, however — usually the result of a leak somewhere — the evaporator coil initially becomes excessively cold. Coil condensation rapidly freezes and ice accumulates on coil surfaces. When the AC cycles off, this ice rapidly melts and may spill outside the drip pan, damaging the floor and other parts of the structure. Measuring the refrigerant charge and tracking down and repairing any leaks, if necessary, is a job for a certified HVAC technician so HVAC condensation can be addressed.
Insufficient Airflow
Adequate airflow through the evaporator coil helps moderate temperatures and prevent coil ice. Conversely, low system airflow usually results from a clogged air filter or, in some cases, leakage in the HVAC ductwork. Without sufficient airflow to moderate coil temperatures, ice formation and condensation leakage may follow. Most manufacturers of HVAC systems recommend that the system air filter should be replaced monthly during the cooling season to prevent low airflow and ice accumulation.
Ask the professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services for more information about HVAC condensation damage and how to prevent it.
