If you have an air conditioning (AC) unit that cools your home, understanding what an AC unit pan treatment is could save you a service call or, even better, having to replace your furnace. But before we get into what a pan treatment can do for you, we need to discuss how the cooling of your home works and what role your furnace plays.
You’re probably asking yourself, what does my furnace have to do with this? I thought we were talking about my air conditioner. Well, we’re talking about both. Your air conditioning unit which includes the system condenser and evaporator works with your furnace to keep your house at that cool 72 degrees you know and love.
Understanding Your Air Conditioning Unit
Without getting too technical, when it is running, your air conditioning system removes heat and humidity from your home. This humidity removal process creates between 5 to 20 gallons of condensation a day and must be drained away from the evaporator section of the system. If it is not removed, sludge, mold, and bacteria can build up within the drain system, causing drain backups and possibly damaging the surrounding area, such as furnace components or flooring. Fortunately, we have a pan treatment for that.
What Is a Pan Treatment?
A pan treatment uses fast-acting, slow-releasing bacteria-killing chemicals (bactericides) that remain inactive when the air conditioner drain pan is dry. As water drips into the pan, the solution becomes active. The bactericides destroy and prohibit the growth of the bacteria in the pan, preventing slime, mold, and mildew from clogging the condensate drain and protecting your furnace and personal property.
At Randazzo Heating, Cooling, and Electrical, we recommend this treatment to all our clients. This relatively inexpensive solution has prevented many clients from costly repairs and replacements. If your furnace needs a pan treatment or if you’re unsure, give us a call or schedule your appointment today.
Benefits of AC Pan Treatments
All air conditioning units create condensate as part of the cooling process. When this occurs, condensation forms and drips into the drip pan known as the condensate pan. Over time, that standing water can become a breeding ground for mold, mildew, bacteria, and other microorganisms. These contaminants also create a slimy buildup in the pan and drain line, which can result in clogs, overflows, water leaks, rust, corrosion, damage to your furnace and personal property, or foul-smelling odors. Fortunately, you can prevent this with a pan treatment.
Features and benefits:
- Prevents water leaks and clogged drains.
- Reduces mildew, mold, and fungus.
- Kills odor-causing bacteria.
- Provides dependable, time-released protection for only pennies a day.
- Adds a light, pleasant scent to the air as it works.
- Time-released for long-lasting results for months
How to Maintain Your Air Conditioner Drain Pan
Air conditioner drain pans should be inspected at least once a month, especially during the warmer seasons when the system is working hard to remove excess humidity from the air inside your house. Since the drain pan fulfills the vital function of draining condensates away, it is also a good idea to check the part after heavy storms or rains. This ensures excess water hasn’t collected in the drain pan, which may hamper AC functioning.
When inspecting the AC drain pan, look out for signs of rust, mold growth, or standing water. When cleaning it, turn the AC off and remove any debris from the pan. Then wash it with a mild detergent to remove any algae and mold, and rinse thoroughly before drying and replacing the drain pan. If the drain pan is rusted or damaged, you need to get a replacement drip pan for your air conditioner.
Alternatively, you can schedule hassle-free pan treatments with Randazzo Heating, Cooling, and Electrical. Our bactericide pan treatments provide a reliable way to eliminate mold growth and scum from blocking up your AC drain pan.
When to Schedule a Pan Treatment
All AC systems should undergo annual maintenance to keep them functioning optimally. Our pan treatments are a proactive way to keep your AC drain pan clean and clear so you don’t need to wait for the signs to schedule a treatment. Regular pan treatment air conditioner services can help prevent costly repairs later.
Signs your drain pan needs a professional pan treatment as soon as possible include:
- Frequent overflows
- Unpleasant odors
- Frequent blockages
- Signs of mold or slime
- Rust or corrosion
Keep Your AC Running Smoothly: Schedule a Pan Treatment Today!
Welcome summer confidently every year with an AC that is perfectly equipped to operate smoothly. Our pan treatments are affordable and provide long-term protection that can last for months.
Don’t delay. Schedule a Randazzo Heating, Cooling, and Electrical pan treatment today!
Last Updated On March 11, 2025 at 9:35 AM EST
