Clear the condensate drain line
In San Diego humidity, condensate lines clog with algae by late summer. 5-minute job.
What you'll learn
- Why algae plugs the drain line every San Diego summer
- Where to find the T-shaped cleanout on the white PVC line
- The distilled-vinegar flush that takes 30 minutes to work
- When the clog is deeper than DIY can reach
Step by step
- Find the white PVC drain line coming out of the air handler.
- Look for a T-shaped cleanout access with a cap on top.
- Pour 1 cup of distilled white vinegar in. Replace the cap.
- Wait 30 minutes. Check the outdoor drain end for flow.
- Repeat monthly during summer.
Safety note
If water still backs up after flushing, the clog is deeper. We have a pump that clears the whole line.
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