The third area for DIYer to take care of is the drain pain. “It should be mostly dry, as water should be easily draining down the drain tube,” states Forbus. The drain pan is typically located under the HVAC system in your home. If you’re not sure where it is, check the manufacturer’s website to get a breakdown of the model. Forbus recommends cleaning this drain pan and drain by pouring a 50/50 mixture of water and bleach down the drain when changing the filter, noting, “This will help keep mold and algae from building up. However, if there is water sitting in the pan, it means the drain is at least partially clogged and should be cleared by a professional.”
Forbus warns that there are times when it’s best to call a professional who is trained to do certain things according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. “The indoor coil, or evaporator, should be cleaned by a pro, as well as having the furnace serviced. Your tech can clean the flame sensor and check the heat exchanger for cracks.”
