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MDV34
Aug 4, 2012, 11:46 AM
I have a York Diamond 80 Heating/AC unit in my attic. The spill pan surrounding the unit had water in it this morning. I would like to clean the drain pipe and see what that does before I start panicking however the pipe that I believe is the drain pipe is connected directly above the unit (See Attached Photos). It does not have an opening away from the unit that will allow me to use a wet vac to clean it out. First is this the correct pipe? If so, how do I unclog the pipe when it is so close to the unit? Also, the caution sign says "Coil under pressure. Relieve pressure before opening coupling or cutting liquid line line." If I release the pressure and then open the pipe and clean it, will the pressure be restored when I retighten everything? Thanks!

Mike

hvac1000
Aug 4, 2012, 11:54 AM
DO NOT cut any copper lines!! You want to cut the 3/4 inch white plastic drain line and add a Y style fitting or a TEE fitting if a Y is not available. Then you can blow the line out with compressed air or what have you that will get the job done. (I use a small tank of Nitrogen but that is not always available to home owners)

After you clear the line you can install a small piece of pipe and place a cap on top so your future cleanings will be easier. This should have all been done during the install.

thermalmedics
Aug 4, 2012, 11:59 AM
You can also find the drain outside and hook up your shop vac there and prime it to a good suction if you want. That will work in a pinch but hvac1000 is right there should be a nice p trap and somewhere to access but the shop vac will get you done in a pinch.

MDV34
Aug 4, 2012, 12:07 PM
Thanks for your help! I agree the builder cut a lot of corners. I assume its not that hard to cut a pipe and install a Tee or Y style fitting (I'll check the internet). I assume this should be done away from the unit. When I cut the pipe I assume there will be a large flow of water from the unit which I should be ready for... the unit is in the attic. Also, before I cut the pipe I will open the valve per the caution sign. I assume it will re-pressurize after I close everything back up.

Mike

Mike

MDV34
Aug 4, 2012, 12:14 PM
you can also find the drain outside and hook up your shop vac there and prime it to a good suction if you want. that will work in a pinch but hvac1000 is right there should be a nice p trap and somewhere to access but the shop vac will get you done in a pinch.

Thanks. Unfortunately, I cannot locate the drain outside of the townhome. The pipe goes from the unit into the floor of the attic and then disappears. As you can imagine, a townhome is not huge and I searched every inch of the outside and there was no pipe to be found. I am at a loss as to where the pipe goes.

Mike

thermalmedics
Aug 4, 2012, 12:51 PM
Then in a pinch just cut the pvc a ways away from the air handler and get a 3/4 coupling and some glue ready. Vac it out to remove the obstruction and re attach with the coupler