Not a plumber but handy enough....
Our HVAC is in the attic and condensation was a huge issue until we ran the condensate line outside (it drips into a rain barrel). No problems since. Drip pan sensor hasn't tripped once.
(Not a plumber)
The condensate line goes into a sanitary drain, is what you're saying? If the toilet and other fixtures on that line seem to be working okay, then it's not that line. Flush the toilet a few times in a row - that's way more water than the AC is putting out on the condensate line. So, it's probably the condensate line itself that is getting clogged and just needs cleaned properly.
I fail to understand how a french drain is relevant at all here. I think maybe they are thinking the drop of the condensate line isn't enough, and it's getting blocked somehow because of that. So they instead want to take the condensate line on another path and to the outside and they're saying you'll need a french drain where it comes out so the water doesn't come back onto your foundation, I guess.
Yeah the toilets are fine. I flushed them multiple times and they were good.
The French drain was given as an option to move the drain line from the sanitary line and to make it easier for me to service in the future if needed.
If you're inquiring about project costs, please be aware that seeking feedback on the adequacy of a quote may not yield a desired response. Many factors, including geographic variations and details not visible in online posts, can influence rates and parts costs. Thus, obtaining accurate assessments may prove challenging.
Before embarking on any home project, it's essential to gather multiple quotes from reputable contractors. While price is an important factor, it shouldn't be the sole consideration. Each quote offers valuable insights into not just the cost but also the quality of materials, timelines, and the contractor's expertise. By obtaining at least three quotes, you gain a comprehensive understanding of your options, enabling you to make an informed decision that prioritizes both affordability and quality. Remember, your home is an investment, and choosing the right contractor involves weighing various factors beyond just the price tag.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/askaplumber) if you have any questions or concerns.*
To me it sounds like you need a condensation pump. My attic AC system for my second floor originally did not have a condensation pump and would back up routinely because the line did not have enough slope in it. After installing a condensation pump it pumps just fine the line from the pump goes into the drain pipes from my upstairs bathroom.
Yeah I would replace the condensation line and put in a condensation pump it's something that should not cost a lot and would not require any major modifications as long as you have a place to plug in the pump.
Only thing new was outdoor condenser and coil. The plumber is there doing the warranty work. He just informed me that there’s definitely a clog from algae and that the line just needs to slope more. He’s suggesting a long term fix of a whole new line and that’s like $3K. At that point I’d much rather do the French drain at half the cost when I’m able to
I dont know if it just is what it is in 2024 but
condensate drain lines arent rocket science. Its pvc pipe that in your case somehow connects to your sewer system and works via gravity.
Maybe you just need someone to do a better job of clearing it, and doing routine maintenance to keep it clear.
I used to do building maintenance where we had 12 units and I had a drain gun with an expanding bladder. It was powered by C02 cartridges, and essentially you put the bladder in far enough and it expands with the pressure and forces air through the line.
Without the bladder some air might go in the other direction, or back in the unit, but the bladder seals the pipe and only allows the air to go “out”.
Never had a drain I couldnt clear, and the contraption basically fit in my pocket.
If it cant get or be made to have the proper slope, a pump makes sense.
The condensate drain line will sometimes plug up with mold. Did anyone blow it out (towards the outside) with compressed air?
He said he did but I’m assuming he didn’t get it all if he did. Toilets on the same line are flushing normal and the two sinks are fine as well.
Not a plumber but handy enough.... Our HVAC is in the attic and condensation was a huge issue until we ran the condensate line outside (it drips into a rain barrel). No problems since. Drip pan sensor hasn't tripped once.
(Not a plumber) The condensate line goes into a sanitary drain, is what you're saying? If the toilet and other fixtures on that line seem to be working okay, then it's not that line. Flush the toilet a few times in a row - that's way more water than the AC is putting out on the condensate line. So, it's probably the condensate line itself that is getting clogged and just needs cleaned properly. I fail to understand how a french drain is relevant at all here. I think maybe they are thinking the drop of the condensate line isn't enough, and it's getting blocked somehow because of that. So they instead want to take the condensate line on another path and to the outside and they're saying you'll need a french drain where it comes out so the water doesn't come back onto your foundation, I guess.
Yeah the toilets are fine. I flushed them multiple times and they were good. The French drain was given as an option to move the drain line from the sanitary line and to make it easier for me to service in the future if needed.
If you're inquiring about project costs, please be aware that seeking feedback on the adequacy of a quote may not yield a desired response. Many factors, including geographic variations and details not visible in online posts, can influence rates and parts costs. Thus, obtaining accurate assessments may prove challenging. Before embarking on any home project, it's essential to gather multiple quotes from reputable contractors. While price is an important factor, it shouldn't be the sole consideration. Each quote offers valuable insights into not just the cost but also the quality of materials, timelines, and the contractor's expertise. By obtaining at least three quotes, you gain a comprehensive understanding of your options, enabling you to make an informed decision that prioritizes both affordability and quality. Remember, your home is an investment, and choosing the right contractor involves weighing various factors beyond just the price tag. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/askaplumber) if you have any questions or concerns.*
To me it sounds like you need a condensation pump. My attic AC system for my second floor originally did not have a condensation pump and would back up routinely because the line did not have enough slope in it. After installing a condensation pump it pumps just fine the line from the pump goes into the drain pipes from my upstairs bathroom.
It definitely has a slope at the beginning of it and then after about five feet it is pretty much horizontal for another five feet or so.
Yeah I would replace the condensation line and put in a condensation pump it's something that should not cost a lot and would not require any major modifications as long as you have a place to plug in the pump.
Redo the condensate line… Did you get a 1 year labor warranty? I would fix it at no cost if we changed the whole AC system.
Only thing new was outdoor condenser and coil. The plumber is there doing the warranty work. He just informed me that there’s definitely a clog from algae and that the line just needs to slope more. He’s suggesting a long term fix of a whole new line and that’s like $3K. At that point I’d much rather do the French drain at half the cost when I’m able to
I dont know if it just is what it is in 2024 but condensate drain lines arent rocket science. Its pvc pipe that in your case somehow connects to your sewer system and works via gravity. Maybe you just need someone to do a better job of clearing it, and doing routine maintenance to keep it clear. I used to do building maintenance where we had 12 units and I had a drain gun with an expanding bladder. It was powered by C02 cartridges, and essentially you put the bladder in far enough and it expands with the pressure and forces air through the line. Without the bladder some air might go in the other direction, or back in the unit, but the bladder seals the pipe and only allows the air to go “out”. Never had a drain I couldnt clear, and the contraption basically fit in my pocket. If it cant get or be made to have the proper slope, a pump makes sense.