What is an aircon water pump?
An aircon water pump is synonymous with the condensate line or condensate drain pump. It is positioned between the condenser unit and the drip tray. The condenser is effectively the outdoor sub-unit of a split-type air conditioning system, while the drip tray, which is also called the drain pan, sits right under the evaporator coil of the indoor AC unit. The role of the drain pan is to collect condensation dripping from the coils. The condensation is produced during the cooling and dehumidification processes undergone by indoor air within the air conditioner. The water collected is then pumped out and drained through a PVC drainage pipe.
The aircon water pump pulls the water out of the drain pan where it is collected, then down the PVC drainage pipe to be deposited outside the house. Not all air conditioning systems have a condensate drain pump. Some ACs just rely on gravity to force water out of the drain pan to the PVC drainage hose.
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How Does the Aircon Water Pump Get Activated?
The aircon water pump, if your AC is outfitted with one, can malfunction. There are five common reasons behind its failure:
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What Are the Possible Reasons for a Malfunctioning Aircon Water Pump
Like a traditional window aircon, the outer half of a casement aircon can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Still, it is advisable to shield this portion of the aircon from direct sunlight and rain. Direct exposure to the sun’s heat can make the aircon work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills. Over time, this added strain can result in faster wear and tear on the unit. By simply installing a small roof or awning, you can protect the aircon from direct sunlight and help extend its lifespan.
Power Supply Problem
The aircon water pump is disconnected from its power source and stops working. Check the power source first. The pump is right outside your indoor AC unit and is attached to the drain pipe. It also has its own plug. Check and see if you can isolate the problem to the pump itself and not the power supply.
Defective Float Switch or Level Sensor
A float switch is the part of your air conditioner that acts like an electronic sensor for clogs in the drain line. It is sometimes clipped to the drain pan. Some float switches sound an alarm to indicate a clog. Some have visual alarm displays. But the majority of float switches simply make the air conditioning unit shut down if they detect a clog, enabling you to check and clear out the clog. If the float switch is faulty, it will cause the aircon water pump to stop working because it acts as a sensor to the water level that will activate the pump automatically.
Defective Check Valve
The check valve is the small valve that works in conjunction with the aircon water pump. The valve leads water away from the pump while stopping the same water from re-entering the pump. A defective check valve will likely result in water not flushing out of the drain pan, effectively preventing the condensate drain pump from working properly.
Clogged Pump
If the pump is clogged and water can’t flow through it, water will just build up on the drain pan. Your air conditioning unit is likely going to shut down when this happens. Alternatively, an error code will be displayed. But it will be easy for you to diagnose a clogged aircon water pump once the drain pan overflows with water.
Clogged Drain Line
Check the drain line, which is the PVC drainage pipe at the bottom of the drain pan. This drain line runs to the outside of your house, usually around the condenser. Because of the constantly moist environment, the pipe is prone to mold and mildew which ends up obstructing the water flow. If the aircon water pump stops working, don’t forget to check the drainage pipe. To remove the clog, use a pressurized air nozzle.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Air Conditioner Water Pumps
Don’t risk water damage to your property or an unexpected AC shutdown. Contact Silverback Aircon for a professional diagnosis and reliable solution. Our experts will quickly identify the problem and provide a lasting fix.
