2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Suite E-03, Austin, TX 78746
Setpoint Services diagnosed and repaired a commercial HVAC condensate drainage issue for a Trane ceiling-mounted air handler in Austin, Texas, after the customer reported water leaking through the ceiling. Upon inspection, the auxiliary drain pan was found completely full of water due to a clogged condensate drain line, causing the drain pan to overflow and leak into the occupied space below.
The condensate drain line was professionally cleaned using commercial drain line cleaner and thoroughly flushed to restore proper condensate flow. Standing water was removed from the auxiliary drain pan, and the primary drain was tested to verify proper drainage after the blockage was cleared. During the inspection, it was also discovered that the auxiliary drain pan had become bent over time, causing water to collect below the existing condensate float safety switch. Because of this deformation, the float switch could not provide adequate overflow protection before the pan began to overflow.
An attempt was made to relocate the condensate float safety switch to a more effective location; however, the existing low-voltage wiring was too short to complete the relocation. The drain pan was adjusted as much as possible to improve drainage until a permanent repair can be completed. Additional inspection revealed that the condensate discharge enters a separate building drain that appears to be partially restricted. Since this drain is part of the building's plumbing system and not the HVAC equipment, a licensed plumber was recommended if drainage problems continue. This Trane air handler is connected to a building water-source HVAC system utilizing a chilled water and cooling tower loop.
The air handler was tested after service and verified to be draining properly and operating normally before departure. Recommendations were provided to replace or relocate the condensate float safety switch with new low-voltage wiring, replace the bent auxiliary drain pan to restore proper overflow protection, and have the building plumbing drain inspected if future drainage issues occur. Routine commercial HVAC drain maintenance helps prevent ceiling leaks, water damage, mold growth, and unexpected system shutdowns.
