If water is dripping from your ceiling and your furnace and/or air handler is located in the attic, the most likely cause is a clogged condensate drain line. Over time, algae can grow inside of this drain line, causing backups or clogs. Also, it is possible for dirt or debris to become lodged inside.

How do you unclog a condensate drain in the attic?

Use the suction hose of a wet/dry vac to suck the clog out. Remove the cap from the condensate drain line. Fix the hose attachment to the wet/dry vac’s hose, and position it into or flush with the end of the drain line. Then, use duct tape to seal the gap between the hose and the drain line.

Why is water dripping from my AC drain pipe?





If you see water coming out of a pipe on the side or rear of your home up high, it means your main condensate line is clogged and you need to call for AC service right away. It is purposely installed high up, so you notice the water dripping sooner than later.

How much water should come out of AC condensate pipe?

Your air conditioner should naturally drain water that was once humidity out of your home. On average, you can expect 5 to 20 gallons of condensate per day.

Why is my AC leaking through the ceiling?

Clogged condensate line.

When warm air blows over your AC’s evaporator coil, condensation forms. This condensation drips into a drain pan and is removed from your home through a condensate drain line. If this drain line becomes clogged with mold, sludge or dirt, the water backs up and overflows the pan.

Should my exterior AC drain pipe be dripping water?





The condensate line should drain to the outdoors and during humid weather you should see plenty of water dripping from it. If it’s not dripping, it’s not draining! If there is standing water in the drain pan, your condensate drain is clogged!

How do I clear my AC drain line?

How to Unclog Your AC Condensate Drain Line

  1. Turn off your air conditioner. …
  2. Remove the cap from the pipe. …
  3. Check to see if there is any debris stuck in the drain. …
  4. Remove any visible debris and retest for proper drainage. …
  5. Pour in Vinegar. …
  6. Replace the drain cap. …
  7. Remove the drain cap.

How do you tell if your AC drain is clogged?

A clogged AC drain line symptoms include:

  1. Musty, moldy smell near your indoor unit or in air from the registers/vents.
  2. Standing water near the indoor unit.
  3. Water damage in areas near the indoor unit.
  4. AC system is not cooling your home.
  5. AC system shuts down or doesn’t turn on.

How much does it cost to unclog an AC drain line?



Clogged Drain Line

If the condensate drain line becomes clogged, water can back up and overflow into your home, resulting in a messy leak. To flush the line or repair it can cost anywhere from $75-$250. In the case that the evaporator coil needs replacing, you are would pay between $400 to $950.

How do I stop my AC unit from leaking water inside?

How to Fix Air Conditioner Leaking Water from The Unit?

  1. Change Your Air Filters. …
  2. Clean the Condensate Drain Line. …
  3. Make Sure Your Drain Pan Is the Right Fit for Your Unit. …
  4. Pour Bleach into Your Drain Line Every 6 Months. …
  5. Don’t Overwork Your Air Conditioner When It’s Hot Outside.


Can a leaking AC cause mold?

A Malfunctioning AC Unit Can Cause Mold Growth

It pulls excess moisture from the air and drains it outside of the home. When your AC has a blocked drainage tube it can cause water to leak inside which can lead to mold growth when not noticed or repaired quickly.