Condensate Dripping Next To The Homes Foundation From The A/C Is A Problem

In the old-days it was a common practice to let the condensate line end next to the homes foundation. Builders would even dig a small hole at this area and fill it with gravel; sometimes they would call it a “condensate well.”

Today

Most building departments now recommend that condensate water be discharged in an area, other than right next to the homes foundation. Most do not recommend discharging condensate to the yard or soil on the exterior, although it was the practice for many years in many areas.

Potential problems

Expansive soils

In areas with expansive soils, it may cause the soil to expand when it gets wet, resulting in extra pressure on the foundations or slab.   (Read more about expansive soils)

Over long periods, may migrate under the footing or slab of the home and be wicked up into the concrete slab of the home.

Basement homes

Homes with basements. The extra water dripping near a basement wall is not a good idea for it may seep down and penetrate through the basement wall over time. Warning signs include peeling paint or mold and mildew on the basement wall in the vicinity of the A/C dripping condensate water.  (Read more on this mold and mildew)

A/C pad may tilt

If condensate water is dripping near the A/C pad it is not unusual for the pad to tilt over time, however, it is best for the A/C pad to be level. A level pad generally extends the life of the A/C unit over time.

Home owners can easily relocated a condensate line themselves. Air-conditioning technician or handyman can easily do this work as well.