Bleach or vinegar in ac drain line. Pour pan tablets or bleach to prevent future blockages. How to unclog an AC drain line. Vinegar. [deleted] • 2 yr. The owner of the company I was trained at recommended one and the foreman the other (bleach or vinegar). Push one syringe of bleach then inject a couple of more times refilling with water. Mar 7, 2024 · Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum. Remove the cap at the top of the drain and inspect for blockage. Bleach and Window Units. 6. Use a funnel and slowly pour 1 cup of bleach Oct 18, 2023 · Learn the simple process for clearing your ac drain line in just a few steps. Nov 12, 2023 · Pour ¼ cup of vinegar into the AC drain line to eliminate mold, algae, and bacteria causing clogs. So the answer to the titular question is vinegar. Step 2: Find the condensate drain line. Then, run clean water through the line to flush out Apr 19, 2021 · In contrast, the germs that vinegar does kill often need half an hour of contact to be affected. The drainpipe is made of PVC and will have a cap located on top. Mar 11, 2024 · 5. Using bleach to clear clogs in the condensation drain on window-mounted air conditioners can potentially cause damage. It is safe to use and does not harm the environment or air conditioning May 28, 2023 · Yes, you can use Drano in your AC drain. [8] Use a funnel to help you get all the bleach into the drain line if it is easier. Don't use bleach like these others guys say. Fix the hose attachment to the wet/dry vac’s hose, and position it into or flush with the end of the drain line. Gain access to the AC drain line by removing the system’s access cap or unscrewing the PVC pipe. You can use a funnel to pour water into it. Use pan tablets to prevent a re-occurrence. How to clean AC drain line with air compressor. Before you begin cleaning your AC P-trap, make sure to turn off your air conditioning unit at the thermostat and at the breaker. Let the solution sit for about 30 minutes to allow the bleach to kill any mold or mildew inside the drain line. Jun 2, 2023 · Step 3: Inspect for Clogs: Using a flashlight, inspect the AC condensate drain line, pipe, and tray for any visible clogs. The acid in the vinegar will break down any buildup or debris that has accumulated in the line. Clean the drip pan. Turn off the system at the thermostat and the power source as well. ago. Step 9. Remove the cap and pour a mixture of bleach and hot water down the drain line using the funnel. Place the cap back on the main drain line and turn the A/C back on. . Pour it into the access hole and let it drain out the other side. This is a great PSA for new homeowners and those unaware to clean the drain line. However, you should use it with caution as it is a caustic substance that can damage your pipes if used improperly. If you have access to the ac drain pan to pour it in that way then awesome . Measure out 1 cup (236. Keep the AC drain line outlet clear. In most cases, the AC drain line clog will occur farther down, and you’ll need to do a little more work. Allow it to sit for a little while (go watch an episode on Netflix & come back), then flush with water. After 30 minutes, flush the drain line with hot water. Oct 2, 2023 · Locate the AC drain line: The drain line is usually a PVC pipe connected to the indoor air handling unit. These can often be seen near the openings of the drain line, pipe, or inside the tray. Use regular distilled white vinegar, as the increased acidity boosts its cleaning properties. com. Before starting any work on your AC system, it’s crucial to ensure your safety by turning off the power. It cannot dissolve things like food waste, breadcrumbs, grease, and hair. Add ¼ cup of distilled vinegar to the drain line through the opening where the cap was removed. Locate the drain line, usually near the indoor cooling coil. Then let it run back out the drain line. #4 · Dec 19, 2022. Here are the short steps you need to follow: Step #1: Shut off Your AC. Reply. However, this could not be further from the truth. Be sure not to use any other type of chemical, as other chemicals could have a negative reaction with the bleach. 4. 3. Repeat this process monthly to keep your condensate drain free of clogs. That helps with any mildew growth—keeps you running clean. Algae growth is a common cause of air conditioner drain clogs. Apr 9, 2020 · Just pour a cup of bleach in the drain line’s access opening near the indoor air conditioning unit. This is to avoid the risk of electrical shock. Feb 14, 2022 · Remove the drain line plug (the cover of the drain line) and pour in ¼ cup of distilled vinegar. Use a wet/dry vacuum if the clog persists. Once the pan is empty, clean it with soap. Instead, pouring bleach into a clogged drain will make things worse. Find the access point and remove the cap. Apr 11, 2020 · Step 5. By pouring a ¼ cup of vinegar into your AC’s drain line, you will kill any mold, algae, mildew, and other forms of bacteria or fungi, preventing it from forming a buildup and causing a clog. This will be enough to suck out any debris and unclog the drain. Apr 30, 2024 · Step 8: Turn the A/C Back On. Apr 26, 2024 · Using the funnel, pour about a cup of distilled white vinegar into the drain line. Using a wet/dry vacuum is an effective method to unclog an AC drain line. White vinegar’s cleaning properties are enhanced by Feb 16, 2024 · It’s usually a white PVC pipe with a cap on top. Use the suction hose of a wet/dry vac to suck the clog out. Let the vinegar sit in the drain line for about 30 minutes. May 19, 2022 · One cup of bleach is the cheapest and easiest way to unclog the drain line in your AC. In this easy to follow step-by-step guide, you can learn how to clean and maintain your AC condensate drain line once a month using vinegar. If the condensate pan can’t empty due to a clog, the water will collect outside around the unit or near the indoor unit. Wait 30 minutes, then flush the line with water to clear it. Let the vinegar sit for a few hours and then pour water in to flush out the line. To try this hack at home, first turn off the thermostat. Visit KalosFlorida. Apr 3, 2017 · Vinegar is definitely the easier of the two to rinse out of the drain line. For your sinks and tubs nothing really, just try to keep the hair out of it or heavy food items. Remove the drain line plug and pour in ¼ cup of distilled vinegar. There is debate over this, though. 00 to replace it. Install a condensate drain line trap. Simply put, these substances can gradually erode metal. After the water bleach mix I would flush the line again with straight water a day or two later, just to make sure the bleach and whatever it cleans is cleared out. Vinegar is better for cleaning. Flush with distilled vinegar. After an hour, pour a gallon of hot water into the clean-out port. Mar 7, 2024 · Step 1: Turn off the Air Conditioner. Learn how to clean your AC drain lines with vinegar, a natural and eco-friendly solution that dissolves debris and kills mold. I learned this lesson the hard way. The ratio of bleach to water should be 1:16. If your drain line is PVC, use only white How to Clean Air Conditioner Drain Line With Vinegar in 6 Steps | Drain Line Cleaning. That will be a T-shaped PVC piece with a cap at the top. And, by the way, if you want to use bleach for disinfecting, make sure the area you Bleach and Vinegar Corrode Metals The central reason to steer clear of bleach and vinegar for cleaning your AC drain line is their corrosive nature towards metals. Repeat until clear. Check out our quick and easy five-step guide to cleaning your AC drain line below. Check to See If the Clog Is Fixed. Turn on the vacuum for two to three minutes, then turn it off. Dec 19, 2022 · 4090 posts · Joined 2018. Should have used vinegar. Be advised, however, that some newer units no longer recommend bleach or vinegar due to oxidation/degradation concerns. Slowly empty the solution down the drain line. A cap not a cup You don't want to breath bleach fumes. You should notice the fan inside the outdoor unit spinning and air coming out. Jun 18, 2018 · Push the stiff, thin brush into the end of the drain line. Pour this mixture into the drain pan or directly into the access point. It really depends on your situation, keep an eye on it and if it starts to build up flush it again before it becomes blocked. Use a drain snake to clear tough blockages. Mix one cup of vinegar or bleach with one gallon of water, and run the mixture through your AC unit’s drain line. Pour diluted vinegar down the line. Vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and helps remove algae and mold buildup. You can also use regular vinegar to regularly clean, but distilled white vinegar would be better. Use a wet/dry vacuum. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your AC P-trap: Step 1: Turn off your AC unit. time released tablets designed especially for condensate drip lines just like this. •. There are various ways to clean out an air conditioner condensate drain, and two popular methods are pouring white vinegar or bleach down the line to clear clogs. To clean an AC drain line, you will need approximately 1 cup of vinegar. I'll try and link you some. Bleach can be harmful to the human body. By creating suction, the vacuum can dislodge and remove debris, restoring proper drainage. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the moisture. Why is this concerning? Potential Damage to Your Evaporator Coil Located within your indoor air handler, the evaporator coil Oct 1, 2020 · Let the vinegar sit for a few hours to eat away any algae buildup before flushing the pipe out with water. Using 1 cup of vinegar is generally enough to effectively clean the AC drain line without causing any adverse effects. Maintain a tight connection between the drain and the hose with your hand and run the hose on high in short bursts. Seal it securely using duct tape. Look for accumulated debris, such as dust, dirt, algae, or mold. Pour 1 cup of either bleach or white vinegar4. There are a few things you can use to clean your AC drain line: white vinegar, bleach, or a commercial AC line cleaner. Be sure to use a minimum of 2 cups once or twice per year. Drano is a powerful drain cleaner that can clear clogs quickly. Step 3. If mold is the concern, then bleach would do the trick. Sep 24, 2020 · Bleach cannot dissolve built-up drain gunk. And, most bacteria would love eating the vinegar! Feb 20, 2024 · Step 5: Use White Vinegar and Bleach. Pour one cup of vinegar down the drain line once a month. Unfasten the drain line from the AC unit and blow air down the line using the air compressor. Allow the A/C to run for about 15 minutes on the desired temperature setting. Feb 11, 2022 · Step 4: Pour in the Distilled Vinegar in the Air Conditioner’s Drain Line. Once you have uncovered the drain line, you should flush it with a gallon jug of water. After the clog is cleared, clean your AC drain line by pouring a cup or more of vinegar down the drain. Sep 26, 2021 · Mix 1/4 cup bleach with 1 cup hot water and pour it into the pipe that leads into the condensate drain pan. Attach the end of your wet/dry vacuum to the end of the AC drain line. But that’s because bleach isn’t intended for cleaning, but for disinfecting. 5 ml) of bleach into the hole to kill the mold and mildew. Identify the access point on the drain line. How to Clean an AC Drain Line. The condensation will remove all the possible bleach residue. Bleach vs. Fortunately, cleaning your air conditioner’s drain line is an easy task you can do yourself with supplies you probably already have in your home. Follow these steps to properly turn off your air conditioner: Locate the power switch or circuit breaker that controls the air conditioner. If your AC drain line is still clogged after following these steps, you may need to call a professional to help clear the line. Simply open up the drain line clean out or T on your inside unit and pour a 50/50 warm water and bleach mixture OR warm water and vinegar solution through the line. Be sure you can see the water exiting freely out of the exterior condensate line. This natural disinfectant not only cleans the drain line but also helps in preventing future mold and bacteria growth. This brush can help you clear any clogs located near the end of the drain line. Chlorine bleach eats away at not only the line but the glue and cement joining the line to the fittings and the condensation pan. Mix it up in a jug. use a drain tablet or gel tabs. Thereafter, seal the shop VAC hose to the pipe with duct tape. Flip the switch to the “off” position to cut off power to the unit. Flush the pipe: Drain the solution and rinse the pipe with fresh water. How to First, find the drain line. Oct 29, 2014 · Step by step1. You can opt to pour 1 cup of baking soda followed by another cup of vinegar. Ensure that the solution doesn’t flow backward, or it may harm the air handler. Share. Vinegar kills algae, but keep in mind it may take a few hours to remove the blockage if it is severe. Oct 9, 2023 · Here are 7 easy ways to keep an AC drain line clear: Review the AC drain line alignment. Turn Off the AC Unit: Safety first. The first step in draining your air conditioner is to turn off the unit to ensure your safety and avoid any damage to the system. Nov 25, 2022 · Is Bleach Or Vinegar Better for Ac Drain Line . Flush the line with vinegar and leave it for 30 minutes. Cost $500. Step #5: Use Distilled Vinegar to Flush the Drain. If you have a commercial AC line cleaner, follow the instructions on May 31, 2021 · There are many different types of vinegar on the market, and they all have different strengths. A common and effective way to unclog an AC condensate drain line is by flushing it with a mixture of vinegar and water. Clean your AC drain line. As for how often. Nov 7, 2023 · Prepare a 1:1 bleach-to-water solution: One part bleach to one part water. Use the secondary AC drain port. The appropriate amount of vinegar to put in the AC drain line is **1 cup**. Sep 29, 2017 · Step 3. Furthermore, if your drain line uses copper piping instead of PVC piping, bleach will corrode the copper as well. Repeat the process until the drain is clear. As the drain line access point is close to your unit’s evaporator coil, any spillage or backflow can cause your evaporator coil to corrode. AC units are designed to absorb and remove humidity from the interior of your home and transport it to the outside, thus the For most situations, where mineral build up is the risk, vinegar is fine. Clean the drain line: Mix equal parts water and bleach and pour it into the drain line to kill any algae or mold inside. To prevent clogs, repeat this process monthly. You can use either one dump some down the ac drain and then Flush it with a jug of water . The acidity in vinegar kills algae and bacteria, but keep in mind that it may take a few hours to remove the clog if it is severe. That's why I asked about running bleach or vinegar down the drain to try to prevent future blockage. After you’ve cleaned the drain pan, dislodged any visible buildup, and cleaned the line with vinegar, pour water into the drain opening (where you removed the cap). Mix equal parts white vinegar and bleach in a cup. The bleach could react with other chemicals, creating dangerous fumes, and if the reaction is violent, it can even burst your drain pipes. Caution: Always wear gloves and goggles for safety. Clear the AC drain line regularly. Vinegar is a more natural cleaner/cleanser that has a ton of uses. To unclog the drain, use a wet/dry vacuum to pull the clog through the drain opening. With the system turned off, flush out the drain using distilled vinegar, hot water with mild dish soap, or a 10% bleach solution. Nov 9, 2023 · Just pour a cup of bleach in the drain line’s access opening near the indoor air conditioning unit. Maintain the health of your drain lines by pouring bleach down them every month. This will prevent clogs or blockages from existing at all. Cleaning out a unit’s condensate drain Jul 17, 2015 · If you find the drain and detect the absence of a slow drip, the drain likely needs to be cleaned. This should allow the water to travel upwards and break up any clogs in the drain. Pour 1 cup (236. Step #2: Locate the Condensate Drain Pipe Line. This is where the real unclogging process begins. Jul 4, 2022 · Remove the cap at the top of the drain and inspect for blockage. Bleach should not be used for drain lines that are made of PVC or ABS plastic. This solution helps break down any blockages caused by algae or mold growth within the pipe. And if possible, tie a cloth towel over the duct tape wrapping to firm the seal. Turn off the AC: Always switch off the power to your system before starting any maintenance work. You will also I use a half cup of bleach mixed with half cup of water. For an ecofriendly approach, use 2 cups of white vinegar, undiluted, instead of the bleach mixture. Then, use duct tape to seal the gap between the hose and the drain line. It is important to note that bleach should be used cautiously, as it contains chemicals that can corrode metal. Clean dirty air filters or replace them. Follow these steps to ensure your AC drain line is clean and clear: Locate the AC Drain Line: Typically, it’s a PVC pipe near your outdoor unit. Connect the head of the garden hose to the opening of the condensate drain. For most situations, where mineral build up is the risk, vinegar is fine. Alternatively, you can use a funnel to pour Jan 2, 2022 · To be sure there is no bleach residue, you can wash with bleach while the AC is still operating. Pour in diluted vinegar or bleach solution: To further break down any clogs, pour the AC drain line cleaner you made into the pipe and let it sit for half an hour or longer, depending on the severity of the clog. Jul 12, 2022 · Typically, condensate drain lines, or condenser lines, are found outside near your AC condenser unit. Through the opening where the cap is removed, add 1/4 cup of distilled vinegar to the drain line. Check the drip pan. Repeat step 2 until the water runs clear. Flush and clean the AC drain line. You can unclog an air conditioner drain yourself by locating the drain line, using a wet/dry vacuum to suction out the clog, and flushing the drain line with a mixture of water and vinegar. The next step is to find out where the AC condensate drain line is located. Pour the bleach mixture down the drain line and let it sit for an hour or two. Apr 23, 2024 · A mixture of 1 cup of vinegar diluted with 2 cups of water can help keep the drain line clean and prevent future clogs from developing. 5 ml) of bleach into a measuring cup with a pouring spout. Pour the vinegar into the drain line and let it sit for 30 minutes. Oct 19, 2022 · Here is how to clean the AC drain line using vinegar: Turn off the air conditioner from the thermostat and electrical panel. Now, mix warm water with bleach in a cup. It has an increased acidity level that is perfect for cleaning any buildups and residues. Follow the step-by-step guide and tips from Wagner, a trusted HVAC service provider in Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Special cases: If the drain line does not have If some of the bleach finds its way back into the drain pan, it could potentially weaken the coil. Alternatively, you can use rags to soak up the water. Step 1: Turn off your air conditioner. Step 2. It is important not to use any other chemical type Mar 7, 2024 · A. I have all windows open to air out. Pour in the Vinegar. Clear the drain trap and drain line with a vacuum. Wtf do I do. Larger volume syringes are also available on Amazon. Leave the solution to soak for up to 30 minutes, then rinse the lines with clean water. My line backed up and the pan overflowed causing water to drain into the fan motor and burn it up. com or call (352) 243-7088 for more information! Using only one household item, HomeTips4You shows how to "Clear out all the gunk and the funk within that AC drain line" cheaply and easily. Most drain lines will have a T-shaped vent tee with a cover or cap. Let it sit: Give it about 30 minutes to break down whatever’s clogging your pipe. When the debris has been removed, pour one cup of vinegar into the drain and replace the cap. Water should also be exiting the main drain line in a steady drip. Next, attach the hose of the shop vac to the ac drain line and let the vacuum run. If you can see a blockage, proceed to the next step. Oct 18, 2022 · Pour one cup of distilled vinegar down the drain pipe and wait for about 30 minutes. First, you need to switch off the air conditioner. Step 1. Related: Apr 29, 2020 · First, remove the paper filter in the vacuum to avoid ruining it. It’s that time of the year again and you’ve got summertime blues. Remove the drain cap. Do you want to learn how to clean and flush out your AC condensate drain line yourself? Watch this video and follow the simple steps to prevent clogs and leaks in your AC system. Add 1/4 cup of distilled vinegar to the drain line through the opening where the cap was removed. After 30 minutes, flush the vinegar with cold water. Then flush down with water and bleach. Feb 14, 2023 · Image by – https://homecleanexpert. So, either most likely work just fine. Turn the thermostat to the OFF position2. . The vinegar will kill any algae along with bacteria and mold in the drain line. To do this, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a container. Sep 15, 2023 · Step 1: Shutting off the power to the AC unit. Step #3: Find the Access Route. Switch it off both at the breaker and the thermostat to be safe. I am scared I am poisoning family. Most of the DIY stuff has vinegar as the main cleaning solution diluted with water. May 20, 2024 · To clean an AC drain line, turn off the AC unit. There are a lot of people out there that believe that using bleach is the best way to clean their AC drain line. Pour the mixture into the pan to sanitize the pan and drain and help prevent future clogging. This will kill any algae, mold or mildew that has formed in the pipe. Flushing Method. Step 4. It is essential to note that while vinegar is a safe and natural cleaning agent, using excessive amounts can harm the drain line or other components of the air conditioning system. Add 1/4 th of a cup of distilled vinegar. Inspect the Drain Line: Check for visible clogs or damage. Jun 30, 2021 · Bleach contains chemicals that corrode metal. Bleach will kill all the algae and bacteria that form a scum inside the condensate lines. In fact, using bleach can actually damage your AC system and cause it to break down sooner. In the same way that vinegar kills bacteria and mold, this tool also kills most fluoride-producing bacteria. Remove the drain pan and clean it. Hot water on its own is known to clear clogs. Apr 27, 2022 · Sanitize the pan and drain. Step #4: Remove Debris. Disconnect the power supply and turn off the furnace. Jun 29, 2018 · It will look like a T-shaped vent with a PVC cover. It’s important to follow safety precautions and turn off the power to the unit before attempting to unclog the drain. All right, so in summary, don’t use bleach; use vinegar. Vinegar would help dissolve mineral deposits - however, condensate would have no minerals in it. Spray the line with a water hose. Just push the tubing up the drain line and ‘inject’ a bit of bleach up to the pan. Take the cap off the condensation line3. Award. Step 6. It’s not going to actually clean your A/C drain, but it can prevent some backups. Once you have the line open, use the wet/dry vacuum to remove the clog and any trapped water along with it. Repeat Mar 7, 2022 · Keeping Your AC Clean: Should You Use Bleach or Vinegar? 🤔Today's topic is all about cleaning your AC unit, specifically whether you should use bleach or vi Oct 15, 2020 · Don’t worry; follow the six steps to learn how to clean the AC drain line to ensure the functionality of your HVAC system. If there’s standing water in the pan, your drain line is probably clogged. This is a clear indication of a problem. Your AC drain line can be unclogged with one cup of bleach, which is the cheapest and easiest solution. This will ensure your safety and prevent any damage to your system. I put a cup of bleach in my drain line and I am smelling bleach fumes in house 3 days later. It's a simple and efficient DIY solution, especially for stubborn clogs that may not respond to other methods. Call us at (321) 269-4565 or schedule an AC Repair today! How to Unclog AC Drain Line With Vinegar in 6 Steps Oct 15, 2023 · To maintain your air conditioner’s condensate drain line, simply pour a cup of bleach in the drain line’s access opening near the indoor air conditioning unit. Feb 15, 2022 · Here are the steps to clean an AC condensate line: Shut off the AC. Have someone check whether the line is draining. Pour a half-cup of vinegar mixed with water into the line to break down debris. Mix 1 cup of bleach and a ½ cup of water. Plays_You_Wonderwall. Let the solution sit for 30 minutes. Hold the hose to the end of the drain line and plug the gap using a duct tape or a rag. Remove the cap from the drain access tee. Oct 23, 2018 · Step 8. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or by researching the type of AC unit you have. While working, turn off the HVAC unit at the thermostat. My skin feels raw. You can prevent a clogged AC drain by performing routine cleaning. Turn off the AC and locate the drain line. If the condensate drain line is clogged, you will need to use a wet-dry vacuum or a special pump to unclog the line. The drain line is mostly located outside the house or near your outdoor Jun 9, 2021 · 3. Let the solution sit for about 30 minutes, then flush the line with clean water to remove the bleach solution. How to clean AC drain line with vinegar. Inspect and vacuum the condensate line. You can try these methods for cleaning AC drain lines: Vinegar: At the pipe vent access point, pour a cup of white distilled vinegar. Using a funnel, small cup with a spout, or similar (I used a watering can with a really narrow mouth), pour a little distilled vinegar or bleach into the line. Step 2: Locate the P-trap. Locate the condensate drain line. PVC pipe and pans are not affected by the corrosive nature of chlorine bleach, but be careful to not splash the bleach onto the evaporator coils or other metal parts of the air conditioner. Pour it down the drain line: Slowly pour the solution under the sink. Use Algaecide Tablets. Pour the bleach down the drain line as quickly as possible. Aug 20, 2023 · 4. Put the cap b Jan 5, 2024 · Here are some signs to look out for: Standing water: One of the most obvious signs of a clogged AC drain line is standing water around the unit. This will keep the bleach in one area, and it won’t be able to form a clog itself. As a general rule, you will need 2-3 cups of vinegar to clean your AC drain line. Perhaps vinegar is just as effective. Use the same 50/50 ratio of hot water and white vinegar. Jun 21, 2023 · Gather the necessary tools and materials. The vinegar will help to kill the algae, mold, and other bacteria that can build up and cause clogs. Came here to say this. Feb 27, 2022 · Before beginning the process, you must carefully cover your eyes, nose, and hands. Step 5. If you have to get to a clog use a snake. Remove the cap from the drainpipe and check for any debris that can be easily removed. Locate the AC drain pipe access tee vent. Mar 23, 2021 · Step 4: Connect the Shop VAC to the Drain Line. bleach is very caustic and corrosive and over time can damage the drain line and or the adhesive that is used to connect the line. Always follow the instructions on the bottle and be sure to flush your drains with plenty of water after using Drano. A technician from my most recent AC visit told me that I should pour a cup of bleach down my AC drain line to prevent clogs. This will help to clear any algae or mold buildup in the drain line. Step #6: Flush with Water. o unclog an AC drain line, you can try the following methods: Bleach method: One cup of bleach mixed with one cup of water is a common and inexpensive way to unclog the drain line. The combination works together very well. Locate the AC unit’s electrical disconnect switch, usually located near the outdoor unit. After the 30 minutes, flush the AC drain line with hot water. Jul 29, 2023 · This will give the vinegar time to break down the clog. Remove the cap from the condensate drain line. How To Clean AC Drain Line With Vinegar Cleaning with vinegar is fairly simple, and just as similar to cleaning with bleach. Always turn off your AC unit before starting any maintenance work. Clean the drain line: Pour a ¼ cup of vinegar into the drain line to kill mold, algae, and other bacteria that can cause blockages. Take your shop VAC hose and connect it to the end of the AC drain line pipe. This will flush the vinegar and clog debris out of the drain line. ba dp wf wo qg gd sl dt hf bp