Cleaning a Difficult AC Condensate Drain

In our climate, we often see the buildup of a white sludge called bacterial zoogloea on all-aluminum coils. We’ve been experimenting with anti-bacterial pan strips, Viper Pan & Drain Treatment, copper, and silver to control zoogloea buildup. So, when we get very dirty drains, it is important to make it our goal to get the drain completely clean, not just focus on getting through the maintenance procedure.

Erich arrived at his commercial PM assignment and found out that the 1 1/4″ drain was completely clogged with bacterial zoogloea. He starts off by cleaning the pipe mechanically with a bottle brush. After that, he runs hot water through the drain several times until the drain is all clear.