Your home's plumbers harvey wa and air conditioning are integrated to keep excess moisture out. Mold and mildew may spread quickly in our humid climate and is often the result of water leaks, floods, or condensation. Water can do a lot of harm if there's too much of it.
Methods for Detecting Water Leaks to Prevent Extensive Loss
Sometimes water damage is obvious because water is dripping from the ceiling or walls. Turning off the main water supply is the first order of business. In the event of a water leak, you should be familiar w ith the location of the main water shut-off valve and how to turn it off.
In many cases, water leaks won't be immediately noticeable. Check for damage using these methods:
Check your monthly water bill. Is it much above the norm without apparent cause?
Keep an eye out for water damage to the carpet, walls, and ceiling near the sink, tub, and other plumbing fixtures.
Is there a musty odor that you just can't place in your house now?
Are sections of your floor becoming uneven or warped?
Do you hear leaking but cannot locate the source?
Wallpaper or paint flaking off for no apparent reason?
Is there moisture around the plumbing fixtures or evidence of rust or corrosion?
Does water drip from the condensate drain when you turn on the air conditioner?
Preserving the Health of Your HVAC Drain
Ensure the Outside Condensate Drain is Clear
Locating the point at which the drain leaves the house is the first step in condensate drain maintenance. The drain should be dripping when the air conditioner is operating and the temperature outside is high along the humid Gulf Coast. This proves that moisture is being extracted from the air.
That drain shouldn't leak when the air conditioner is turned off.
Clogged drains can prevent the normal trickling sound made by a drain when an air conditioner is operating.
Your condensate drain may be connected to your plumbing system if you cannot locate an exterior drain. There will be more on this later in the piece.
How to Prevent Clogging of the Condensate Drain Instead of using bleach, pour half a cup of vinegar down the condensate drain once every three months for inspection and maintenance.
The apex of the drain is typically situated in the lofts of houses in our neighborhood. Sometimes you'll find it tucked away in a hallway closet.
Doing it even once or twice a year is preferable to never doing it.
If you'd rather not deal with this kind of upkeep, you can inquire about a condensate drain maintenance plan from your HVAC technician.
Get a Float Switch Set Up.
Get a float switch or ceiling saver switch put in if you don't already have one. If your drain becomes clogged and your drain pan begins to overflow, these switches will automatically shut off your air conditioner.
Your HVAC technician will be pleased to point out the drain, explain how to keep it in good working order, and advise you on whether or not a float switch for the drain pan is necessary.
You might already have a float switch or two if you have a newer HVAC system, as this is a requirement of some local ordinances.
