The AC condensate drain line should terminate at an approved drainage point — typically outdoors away from the foundation, into a floor drain, into a properly trapped indoor drain, or to a condensate pump that lifts the water to a drain. The line should never empty into a crawlspace, attic floor, or against the siding of the house.

Acceptable drain terminations

  • Outdoors, away from the foundation and walking paths
  • Into a floor drain or laundry sink with an air gap
  • Into a condensate pump for basements or interior closets
  • To a P-trapped indirect waste line on the plumbing system

A poorly routed condensate line is one of the most common causes of water damage and ceiling stains in central AC systems. We handle drain rerouting and clearing during air conditioner maintenance and AC repair, plus we can run a new drain to the right termination during AC installation.