[DangeloInspections]

I always tell my clients to pour about 1/2 a gallon of hot, (not boiling) water into the inlet of your A/C condensate line, at least 4 times a year. A 1/2 a cup of Vinegar is also fine. Never pour bleach down there, as it can in some cases harm the A-Coil. I even blow mine out or suck it out with a shop vac every so often. Typically the service guy will do this if he is good.

If the condensate line backs up the float switch SHOULD turn off your unit before damage is done.....however, I usually find a broken float switch about every two weeks during warranty inspections.

I also recommend that you have your A/C serviced (i.e.cleaned and maintained) at least once per year, if not twice a year. Your A/C system is one of the most expensive components of your home. Keeping it in tip-top shape will help it to last longer and run more efficiently, saving you money in the long run.

Also make sure the filter door on your Carrier unit fully closes. I often find them half open, allowing more humid garage air to enter your conditioned space. This will also help cause a wet filter, etc, that can promote mold growth on the filter.

I do about 400 warranty inspections in The Villages a year, and many times I find horrid looking moldy A/C filters from folks who have not learned to have normal maintenance done on their systems.

On a typical inspection we check the A-Coil, filter, housing, float switch, bottom of the return, etc, etc, etc. It is always good to know that your serviceperson during normal maintenance has blown out your condensate line, etc.

Personally, I am not a big fan of service contracts...but even I have one on my A/C unit. These newer units do not seem to have the longevity they enjoyed in the past. I personally budget for a new system every ten years or so...if by having good maintenance I get more years out of my system, that's great.

Basically, you take care of your stuff and it will take care of you.

Hope that helps, Frank D.