Leaking Trane AC

[ceecube]

I have a Trane Central AC & Heating (Gas) unit that's 17+ years old. It's located in my garage (in its own closet) and this summer there's lots of water leaking from it into the garage. I check the drain pipe, but not much is coming out of it. I could literally see and hear the water dripping on all sides of the unit. I usually have to sweep it out of my garage sometimes as much as twice daily. Any ideas/recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Ceecube

[Grady]

First try cleaning out the drain by sucking it out with a shop vac. If that does not help, the drain pan may be rusted out or cracked.

[ceecube]

Hi Grady,

Thanks for your prompt response. I'm still getting the leak even after draining the pipe with my wet vacuum. Would I be able to replace the drain pan myself? Is it easily accessible? If so how?

God bless,

ceecube

[mattison]

At 17 years old I don't think I would bother with the expense that would be involved in replaceing or repairing the pan if that's the problem. Can you get the access cover off and inspect the pan??

[Grady]

Let's not get the cart before the horse. You need to verify the drain is not plugged on the interior of the pan. If this is a cased coil (factory made cabinet around the A/C coil) there should be access to the coil & pan. If nothing else, you could cut the drain, remove the fitting which screws into or onto the the drain pan & look for rust or other debris blocking the drain.

[Antbet5]

Another possibility is that the evaporator coil may have a large amount of buildup on it causing the water to drip off the coil surface and not into the drain pan. If your system has not been maintained yearly, this might be a possible cause.

If there is a hole in the pan, I would definately consider replacing the existing system. You will probably pay for the new system in a much quicker period of time due to the utility savings you will be getting.

[ceecube]

It works!!!
After cutting the drain, I discovered that there was rust clogging 2 of the elbows on it. This was cleared and the drain reattached. I would like to thank everyone for their input. It was greatly appreciated.

God bless,

ceecube

[Grady]

No major operation after all. Glad you got it fixed.

[hiltontech]

Add a little bleach in the drain from time to time to help it from becoming clogged again.