As a homeowner, it’s important to know the drainage system of your home’s HVAC unit. There are two separate pans which collect condensation from your air conditioning and heat exchanger, and understanding their purpose and where they exit the home is key to keeping your home in top condition. Let’s break down what these pans do and how they work.
Primary Drain Pan – This pan is located directly under the evaporator coil, and collects condensation created by the cooling process of your AC unit. This drain pan should be checked regularly for any signs of damage or debris build-up, as it is designed with a sloping surface that allows water to flow out through a single drain line. If this pan becomes full or clogged, it could lead to costly repairs or even property damage if not taken care of immediately.
Secondary Drain Pan – This pan is placed beneath the primary drain pan and serves as an additional backup in case of overflow or clogging from the primary pan. If there is an issue with the primary pan, water will fill up in the secondary drain pan until it reaches its own overflow point (usually connected to a nearby sink or floor drain). It’s always important to check both pans on a bi-monthly basis just to make sure everything is working properly.
Knowing your home’s HVAC system can seem daunting at first, but understanding the purpose and placement of your primary and secondary drain pans can help you stay prepared if something ever goes wrong with them. Regular maintenance checks are key to ensuring that any issues can be caught early before they become major repair jobs! #SuttleAir #gilbertarizona #drainpanmaintenance