How to Prevent HVAC Water Damage

Change the HVAC filter regularly.

• Changing the filter helps prevent the unit from overworking, which can cause freezing and then defrosting on the evaporator coils, leading to HVAC water damage.
• Change the filter at least once a month with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. It would be best if you changed some air filters twice a year, others once a month, depending on their type and how often you use the HVAC system.
• Check the instructions manual first to know what type of filter you need.
• If the filters are inside the furnace or air handler, hire a contractor to change the filters.

Clean the condenser

• The condenser is the exterior portion of your air conditioner or heat pump. It requires proper airflow to work efficiently.
• You should remove any dirt or other debris accumulating on the condenser once a year (preferably at the beginning of spring).
• Also, make sure to keep plants away from the condenser and remove any cover from it to ensure proper airflow.
• Leave at least two feet of space between the unit and the bushes or shrubs in your yard.

Maintain the condensation drain line

• When your AC unit runs, check the condensation line opening to make sure you see water flowing to the drain. The amount of water that flows depends on the humidity level in the house.
• Clean the AC drainage holes. Locate the drainage hole on the base of the cabinet (beneath the evaporator fins). Use a paper clip or wire to poke through the hole and clear it, thus ensuring the AC drainage is kept clear.
• Once or twice a year, flush out your drain line with an algaecide to prevent mould or algae from forming. Use a commercial solution or regular bleach.
• Make sure to properly connect and install the main drain line and emergency drain line.
• Check that the pipe is oriented correctly, as the weather might have knocked it out of alignment.

How to unclog the drain line

• Sometimes, the drain line gets clogged with algae, dirt, mineral deposits, and even mould or mildew, causing water to overflow into your home.
• Attach a wet/dry vacuum to the drain line (removing the paper filter first) and suck the clog out.
• Consider installing an overflow shut-off device on the drain line to automatically turn off the A/C unit if the drain line backs up.

Install a condensation pump

• Another tip on how to avoid HVAC water damage is to install a condensation pump.
• That helps excess water flow into the proper disposal drain.
• Additionally, install a safety float switch to automatically shut down the power to the AC unit whenever condensation builds up, and there is a risk of water overflow.

Maintain the overflow drain pan

• The drain pan collects any water that has overflowed due to a clogged drain line.
• Over time, drain pans made of metal or plastic may get damaged, resulting in leaks and water damage.
• If you notice leaks near the drain pan, carefully inspect it for damage using a flashlight.
• Consider patching up small holes or cracks using epoxy glue or replacing the pan entirely.
• Regularly clean the drain pan. Rinse the pan and clean it with a bleach-water mixture to clear out any dirt or mould growth.

Have your HVAC system inspected professionally

• HVAC inspection and maintenance can be difficult for homeowners, so hiring a professional is a good idea.
• Besides the tasks already mentioned, they can examine and fix problems related to HVAC components.
• Those include ductwork, furnace flames, grills and registers, AC compressors, thermostats, and more.

For Mould Remediation, Call PuroClean

The moisture in HVAC systems also promotes mould growth that can contaminate the air in a home. The PuroClean team stands ready to provide professional restoration services to any property affected by fire, water, or mould damage. Call us at (705) 710-0606.