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Packing for a Move

How To Install A PVC Tee Fitting To Increase Access To Your Condensate Drain Pipe

9 July 2015

Aaron Carroll

If your condensate drain pipe does not come with an access tee, then you are at a disadvantage when it comes to performing routine maintenance needed to keep the condensate from clogging. Fortunately, you can install your very own low-cost, simple PVC tee that will enable you to easily access the drain pipe. Below is what you will need, as well as how to install the tee for better air conditioner repair.

List of tools and materials needed

• 3/4-inch Schedule 40 PVC tee
• 3/4-inch Schedule 40 PVC pipe
• 3/4-inch Schedule 40 PVC end cap
• PVC pipe cutter
• PVC pipe cement
• Rubbing alcohol
• Shop towel or scrap piece of cloth
• Old bath towel
• Tape measure or ruler
• Fine-tip black marker
• Laundry bleach
• Funnel

Installing the access tee – step-by-step instructions

1. Locate the condensate drain pipe – the first step is to locate your system's condensate drain pipe as it leaves the evaporator coil, the device that transfers heat from inside your home to the refrigerant. In most instances, the condensate drain will consist of white schedule 40 PVC pipe emerging from the unit's metal case; be sure to measure to verify, but the diameter of the pipe-in-use is most likely 3/4-inch. The evaporator coil is not usually difficult to locate; search for it inside your attic, basement or other enclosed spaces such as old closets.

2. Measure the section of PVC pipe to be removed – after locating the coils, find a location along the condensate drain pipe where you wish to insert the tee fitting. While the exact location is flexible, it's typically best to add the condensate access tee within three to five feet of the evaporator coil. Provide enough room to maneuver around the drain pipe, and be sure it is not going to be in the way of any person trying to add bleach and water.

To determine the length to remove, measure the tee fitting from end-to-end and subtract 1/2-inch from the total. Next, measure on the pipe in the desired location the amount just calculated, and make cutting marks with a fine-tip marker.

3. Cut and remove PVC pipe where the tee is to be inserted – after measuring and marking the length of PVC pipe to be removed, cut the section of pipe along the marks you made in step 2. Use a PVC pipe cutter or hacksaw to remove the PVC section, and keep extra towels on hand if the amount of condensate becomes excessive. After removing the pipe, use a small file to grind down any burs or rough edges.

4. Clean the ends of the PVC pipe – the ends of the PVC pipe are apt to be dirty or oily. To remove any contaminants that might prevent the pipe and fittings from sealing properly, soak a shop towel in rubbing alcohol and rub-down the ends of the PVC with the damp towel.

5. Cement the PVC tee into position – after removing the small section and cleaning the ends of the pipe, apply a thin layer of PVC cement around the outside of the pipe ends and insert the 3/4-inch Schedule 40 PVC tee tee fitting to bridge the gap. Before the cement sets, quickly adjust the tee so the remaining opening faces upward and both ends of the pipe are firmly set into place. Cut a one-inch piece of PVC pipe from the section you removed in step 3, and test-fit it to see if it will fit inside the opening of the tee. Cement the small section into place once you can verify its proper fit.

After the cement has dried, push a 3/4-inch PVC end cap on to the small piece of pipe; do not cement the end cap, as you will need access to the opening.

6. Perform an initial cleaning – after installing the PVC access tee, then you are ready to test the fitting and perform your first cleaning. To clean the condensate drain, simply mix one-half cup of bleach with one-half cup of water, remove the end cap on the tee, and pour the bleach/water solution into a funnel inserted into the opening. Repeat this step once every two-to-three months to keep your condensate flowing freely.

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