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Many believe that it’s good to cap the AC drain or condensate line. While others state the complete opposite that capping does not provide any benefits. So, it’s pretty obvious to feel lost about what to do with your AC drain line!
Most AC drain lines do not require it to be capped. However, you can cap it if you want to. It solely depends on the usage and condition of your AC. There are some instances where capping the line ended up clogging. While others did not encounter any significant disadvantages.
A very common issue with drain lines is that they get clogged up very often!
Some companies claimed that the line should not be capped. But it’s actually up to your ac. If your ac provides more with the cap then go for it. But if you find problems after capping, then you should remove it.
Benefits of Using an AC Drain Cap
Increased Efficiency:
A cap can increase the efficiency of the ac. The cap holds more air. It prevents air from coming out from the interior. As the air can not come out, the room becomes colder. If it is not capped, the air will blow out.
That will cause your ac to work more. So if there is no other problem, you can cap it as it will give you the best results.
For Draining Purposes:
Along with the efficiency increase, there’s another great advantage of condensate lines. It can provide an excellent draining mechanism for your AC. So, should the ac drain line have a trap?
For a proper drain system, a trap is much needed. It helps to continuously drain the water. If the primary line is blocked, water drains through the secondary line.
There are many types of traps present. But finding the right one can be a chore! To ease your pain, here are some top recommendations from users like you-
- Condensate Trap from ZAINAB Supplies is quite the rugged solution for furnaces and ACs.
- Another great choice is the Little Giant Automatic Condensate Removal Pump. It has a safety switch to ensure a quick shutdown in case of overflow.
- If you want to check out a trap and elbow assembly then Protech 68-24048-01 is the one! It’s been built like a tank to last longer than you expect.
Mostly there is a cap in the primary drain line. For this, the air pushes the water out. Also if you cap, the condensate water will not go to the emergency pan.
The cap is used mainly to keep the temperature constant. No air can escape due to the cap. It is a plus point if you want to use a cap.
The Disadvantage of an AC Drain Cap
Now that you know about the advantages, it’s time for the negatives.
System Overflow:
Some companies say that, if you cap the drain it will overflow. The water will not drain properly due to the cap. While it is capped, the air is unable to push the water. Then the water can not drain through the primary drain line. It will flow out from the emergency pan.
Also if it is capped, the weather can not blow out. Rather the water goes to the system. It causes overflow internally. So any occurrence may take place. Your ac will not respond well. It will rather cool your room, and start to work more to blow out the water.
Clogged Drain Line:
The cap can affect the drain line also. The line starts clotting for the cap. To know if there is any clot present or not, you can find out by measurement.
So, how much should the ac drain line drip?
5 to 20 gallons of condensate per day is the optimal line drip. If the amount is less, then there is clotting in the line.
Also, you can find it easily. If there is a clot, the water will drain into the emergency pan. You can follow some steps to get rid of troubles like this. Also, you have to clean your AC’s condensate drain line regularly.
What Are the Factors to be Considered After Capping?
If you decide to cap the ac drain then you have to follow some tips. These will help to work your ac in the best way. Sometimes people face clotting problems. What can I pour down my ac drain line? It is a quarry that capped its ac drain line.
- You should regularly check the drain line.
- The ac drain line should not be capped with glue.
- You should gently press the cap to further clean the pipe.
- You can use 1/4 cup of vinegar if you find any clot. Pour it into the line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is bleach or vinegar better for AC drain lines?
Vinegar is better for AC drain lines. Vinegar has no corrosion effect. It only gives a strong smell after washing. But bleach can damage your drain line if there is a presence of copper. Bleach can also damage the surrounding clothing materials. So we recommend vinegar.
How often should you pour bleach into the AC drain?
Use bleach a maximum of two cups up to two times a year. But it is not recommended to use bleach as it has a corrosion effect. It can damage the line. Rather you can use boiling water to clean the lines. You can use a thin stick or rod to remove the clog. Then wash it with water.
What causes the AC drip pan to overflow?
The clogged line can cause the pan to overflow. The water comes to the draining line from the condensate line. It will pass through the line and go outside. If there is any obstruction or clogged in the line, it can not blow out. So the water goes back and overflows into the drip pan.
Conclusion
You’re now all equipped to make your decision. We hope you got the proper idea about should ac drain line be capped or not!
Keep in mind that your AC will only be as good as its owner. So, try to take care of it and follow the official instructions.
HVAC tech with over 30 years of experience. Retired and doing repair work on the side around Madison County, AL.