Condensation Line In Attic

Insulation is responsible for keeping warm air inside your living space and out of the attic where it can lead to condensation.

Condensation line in attic.

Air handling units in attics should have a secondary condensation pan in case the primary condensation pan overflows. Occasionally the secondary condensation pan will also clog and not drain. Ensure proper ac condensation line pitch and reduce elbow connection angles having your ac condensation line run straight as possible is ideal and a drop of 1 8 inch for every 12 inches of length is the minimum pitch. When everything is working properly condensation runs down the drain line and exits outside your house.

The line is a pvc pipe that runs from the condenser inside your house to the outside next to the compressor. Most but not all ac units will have an easy to locate access point to the drain line. It s usually located outdoors next to the compressor. The condensation drip from the condenser is carried from the inside to the outside.

To save time and better pinpoint the problem you can hire a professional to inspect your insulation and fill any gaps that might be letting warm air into. Just pour a cup of bleach in the drain line s access opening near the indoor air conditioning unit. Look for white pvc pipe around 3 4 inch 1 9 cm in diameter coming out of your ac system s indoor unit. Traces where water has trickled down the walls.

This will kill any algae mold or mildew that has formed in the pipe. Check that the condensation is being removed. Well just like any drain line the water should exit the drain and there should be no concern about freezing. Signs of condensation in the attic may include the following.

If there is a condensate trap insulate it or just remove it since it probably just runs outside from an attic space. Moisture forming on the glass window panes or other flat surfaces. Look for an upside down or sideways t shape of pvc pipe with a removable cap. Water builds up in the ceiling and eventually there will be a drip if the homeowner is lucky.

The condensation drain line is plugged. There should be a constant drip when the air conditioner is running. Remove any elbow connections with 90 degree angles and replace them with 45 degree elbow connections when possible. That s the line that your air conditioner uses to get rid of all the humidity that it pulls from the air.

Inspect your attic insulation. If the condensate drain line is clogged you will need to use a wet dry vacuum or a special pump to unclog the line. Find the condensate drain line and drain line access point. Check the condensation line.