How Do I Check Condensate Drainage on a Bryant Furnace?

Furnaces often have plastic or vinyl condensation lines.

Fortunately, checking and cleaning the condensation line is a simple process.

1. Locate the condensation drainage line coming from your furnace. On most Bryant furnaces, this will be located in the lower section of one side of the furnace. The drainage line will be made of either white PVC pipe or clear vinyl tubing and will run to a drain or sump pump nearby.

2. Turn off the furnace at the breaker. Open the panel nearest the condensation line, being careful to not pinch or tear the condensation line. Follow the condensation line to a small box or drain located near the blower unit.

3. Check proper drainage of the unit by removing the condensation line, placing a catch pan under the drain and running the furnace. Condensation should begin to drip out of the furnace, but timing will vary by climate and weather. You should see something within 15 minutes, but keep in mind that you are looking for condensation, so there may be very little liquid even if the furnace is running properly.

4. Clean the condensation line by blowing some hard blasts of air through it with an air compressor fitted with an appropriately sized attachment to dislodge excess buildup. If the buildup is very thick, replacement of the line may be necessary.

Tip

Take the old condensation line to a hardware store to matching the replacement line. The new line should screw or push back on (attach the opposite way you removed it). Be sure to turn the furnace off at the breaker before installing the new line.

Warning

Be careful not to pinch the condensation line while you're handling it. If it is hard PVC, this is not a risk.