What Is An A/C Condensate Drip Pan And How Does It Work?

Today’s air conditioning systems are loaded with advanced technology, but one of the most important is little more than a simple pan. The condensate drip pan essentially collects moisture from the refrigerant coils that are attached to your AC system. Then the pan directs droplets into a pipe that takes it away from the rest of the equipment.

The drip pan is a highly vital part of the equation that helps prevent water damage and mold. It certainly isn’t the most glamorous thing connected to your equipment, but as we’ve seen time and time again at Furnace Part Source, it’s an important one. This small piece of metal sheeting might be the only thing stopping moisture from wreaking havoc on your gear.

How AC Drip Pans Work

Whenever an air conditioner runs, you start to experience some degree of condensation. This condensation is a result of the cold refrigerant coils reacting with warm air.

Humidity will quickly turn into liquid water in this scenario, which can potentially generate a measurable quantity in the process. These water droplets are caused by the same principle that makes glasses appear to sweat on humid days. It’s also the reason that toilet tanks appear to collect water on the outside even though they don’t leak.

As this condensation occurs, the water has to go somewhere, so the pan is usually positioned underneath the coils to collect it. That gives it a clear area to fall into without getting into anything else in the process.

Water that makes its way into this pan will eventually collect in such a quantity that it is forced into a pipe. If you take a look at the physical exterior of your air conditioner itself, then you should notice some sort of device coming out of it that leaks out water.

Most commonly, this entire system is passive so there really isn’t any other piece of equipment that pushes the water along. Companies like Fasco have made effective drip covers. There are a number of other accessories that have helped to customize this process further, but none of them are essential.

Instead, most systems work comfortably with a very simple assembly. Even so, you won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to acquire replacement components if necessary for some customer gear.

Maintaining AC Drip Pans

Best of all, there’s usually very little maintenance when it comes to keeping these in service for long periods of time. As pans, they lack the kind of moving parts that will generally bring down other factors in a majority of HVAC-related scenarios. Cleaning them out on a reasonably regular basis is a good idea, and you’ll want to make sure that they’re positioned in the right spot, but they should prove otherwise reliable.

Prevent Clogs And Water Drips With Furnace Part Source

Furnace Part Source wants to help you maintain an HVAC system. The components we stock will reduce standing water when contamination happens or you need a replacement.

When you do find you need a specific type of replacement part, contact us online. Our experienced team will help you find everything you need.