How To Find Out If Your LG Portable AC Requires Water Drainage

Water drainage is necessary for air conditioners, including LG portable models. Despite the advanced technology in modern LG portable air conditioners, water drainage is still required.

Read on as we explain how to drain LG portable air conditioners, the frequency of drainage, and the reasons behind water overflow in these units.

Instructions For Draining LG Portable Air Conditioners

When the “FL” indicator code appears on your LG portable AC display, it means the unit requires drainage. You can choose to elevate the unit and drain the water into a container or move the unit to a location with a floor drain or outdoors for water drainage.

Follow these steps to drain the unit:

1. Switch off and unplug the unit from the power outlet.
2. Disconnect the vent hose assembly and locate the drain port at the bottom back of the unit.
3. If using a container, place the unit on a stable platform, such as a stool, at a height that allows the water to flow into the container beneath the drain plug.
4. If draining to a floor drain or outside area, exercise caution while transporting the unit with a full water collection tank.
5. Unscrew the drain cap counterclockwise to initiate drainage.
6. Carefully remove the drain stopper to allow the water to flow out.
7. Once drainage is complete, remove the container (if used) and dry any wet areas with a towel or cloth.
8. Ensure the drain stopper is inserted and closed properly to prevent water from seeping out.
9. Securely fasten the drain cap cover onto the drain port by placing it over the drain plug and turning it clockwise.
10. Reconnect the vent hose assembly, ensuring it clicks into place. Extend the hose and create an inverted U shape at the vent panel to prevent rainwater from entering the unit.
11. Plug the unit back into the designated power outlet, and it is ready for use.

Frequency Of Draining LG Portable Air Conditioners

The frequency of draining depends on the ambient temperature and humidity levels. Higher humidity levels lead to increased moisture in the air, resulting in faster water accumulation in the unit. Therefore, drainage may be required more frequently on hot and humid days.

Understanding Self-Evaporative Portable Air Conditioners

Traditional air conditioners require external water containers or regular emptying of the internal water collection tray. However, self-evaporative air conditioners minimize or eliminate this need. They are often referred to as “no-drip” units because water does not drip from the back of the unit.

In self-evaporative units, the excess water collected inside the device or in an external container is dispersed through the window vent pipe.

Causes Of Rapid Water Accumulation In Portable AC Units

Several factors can contribute to water filling up rapidly in portable air conditioners:

1. High Humidity: Humidity in the air leads to condensation and water generation in portable AC units. Higher humidity levels result in more water collecting in the condensate pan of the air conditioner. In low-humidity environments, drainage issues may be less prevalent in portable AC units without self-evaporative technology.
2. Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter obstructs airflow, reducing the amount of air passing over the evaporator coils. This can lead to moisture freezing on the coils and subsequently dripping into the condensate pan. Even partially evaporative units may not drain water as fast as it accumulates, necessitating frequent emptying.
3. Humid Season: Humidity levels vary based on the season and location. Certain times of the year may experience higher humidity, resulting in increased water generation in the portable AC unit.
4. Condensate Pump Malfunction: If your portable AC has a condensate pump and the water is leaking or the water tank keeps filling up, there may be an issue with the condensate pump configuration.

5. Improper Water Drainage: If water is not properly draining from the unit, it could be due to a clogged drain preventing water from exiting the water tank. Check for any obstructions that may be blocking the drain.
6. Faulty Portable AC Blower Fan: A malfunctioning fan can reduce airflow, preventing sufficient air from passing through the unit to remove heat from the evaporator coils. This can result in ice formation on the coils, leading to rapid water accumulation in the condensate pan.
7. Evaporator Coil Blockage: Clogged evaporator coils restrict airflow, causing the airflow rate to be lower than necessary. This can lead to ice formation and subsequent melting, resulting in repeated filling of the water tray.
8. Insufficient Condensate Pan Capacity: If the condensate pan or water tray in your portable AC is too small, it may fill up quickly, requiring more frequent emptying. Consider using a drain line to bypass the condensate pan or installing a condensate pump for automatic water removal.
9. Damaged Water Level Indicator: A malfunctioning or improperly positioned water level indicator or float switch can provide inaccurate signals regarding the water level in the portable AC unit. This can cause the unit to shut off prematurely, necessitating more frequent emptying.

In Conclusion

Draining water from your LG portable air conditioner is necessary. Follow the recommended steps to drain the unit properly and avoid water overflow. Consider the factors that contribute to rapid water accumulation and address any issues accordingly. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the air filter can help optimize the performance of your portable AC unit.