Arkansas HVACR NewsMagazine September 2024

ARHVACR NewsMagazine September 2024

S tate, National, Chapter News State national Chapter News

Kirk’s Corner Preventing and Fixing Frozen Condensate Drain Lines As winter approaches, homeowners face the challenge of protecting their heating systems from the harsh effects of freezing temperatures. One common issue is the freezing of condensate drain lines in high-efficiency natural gas furnaces. If the drain line freezes, it can cause your furnace to shut down — an inconvenience that’s all too familiar in areas like Arkansas, where consecutive days of freezing weather are becoming more common. Why Do Condensate Drain Lines Freeze? High-efficiency natural gas furnaces produce condensate as a byproduct of the combustion process. This condensate must be drained and expelled from the home. However, when temperatures drop, the water in the exterior drain line can freeze, forming blockages that can cause the furnace to stop working. The problem is often exacerbated when a drip outside the home forms an icicle, which can eventually work its way into the drain line.

T. Kirk Pierce Senior Energy Efficiency Consultant 501-412-9610 tpierce@summitutilities.com

How to Prevent Frozen Condensate Drain Lines Preventing a frozen condensate drain line is essential for keeping your furnace operational throughout the winter. Here are some effective strategies: Install weather-proof sleeves or insulation around the exterior portion of the condensate drain line. This will help maintain a temperature above freezing, preventing ice formation inside the pipe. 2. Shorten the Drain Line: If possible, reduce the length of the exterior drain line. A shorter pipe gives the water less space to freeze, lowering the risk of a blockage. 3. Monitor Snow Accumulation: During snowfalls, check that the snow level does not reach the height of the drain line. Blocked drains can exacerbate freezing issues. 1. Insulate the Drain Line: