As temperatures soar in Florida during the summer months, homeowners often face common and avoidable breakdowns in their HVAC systems, with drain clogs topping the list. 

• To shed light on the issue, we spoke with Tony Hicks, the Assistant GM & HVAC Service Manager at Peaden, to understand the best ways to keep those drain lines flowing smoothly.

“With hot days here in Florida and into the night, your HVAC system is just running all day long with water constantly flowing through there,” said Tony Hicks. “The best way for upkeep is pouring white vinegar down the drain line once per month. That’s the standard.”

• He explained that the heat and humidity in Florida make it easy for algae and mold to thrive in the drain lines, leading to clogs and potential system breakdowns.

To keep the drain lines in good shape, Hicks advised homeowners to make it a habit to pour a cup of white vinegar down the drain line every time they change the filter. This simple routine maintenance can go a long way in preventing clogs and maintaining a smoothly operating HVAC system.

Additionally, keeping the filters clean is crucial. The dirtier the filter, the dirtier the evaporator coil becomes, and Hicks says this can contribute to clogging issues in the drain lines. He emphasized that households with more occupants or pets might need to change their filters more frequently to prevent excess debris from entering the drain.

For those who prefer leaving the maintenance to the professionals, Peaden offers a maintenance program that includes clearing the drain lines.

At Peaden, they utilize pressurized nitrogen to shoot out any obstructions in the drain lines during their maintenance visits. Hicks recommended having this deep cleaning done at least once or twice a year, coupled with the homeowner’s monthly white vinegar routine.

• In certain cases, where the HVAC unit is located in hard-to-reach places like the attic, Hicks suggested installing UV lights that shine on the coil continuously. These lights help to keep the coil clean and indirectly aid in maintaining a clear drain line.

For those homeowners facing persistent drain line issues, Hicks mentioned another effective solution: installing a condensate pump. 

• “The pump fills up and forces water out through a condensate tube, alleviating drain line problems,” he said. “Although regular maintenance is still necessary, this solution reduces the need for monthly worries about clogs.”

For more information on HVAC services from Peaden, and how their maintenance program can provide you with peace of mind, visit their website today.