PuroClean of North McKinney 
At PuroClean of North McKinney, we handle various restoration services. One recent project involved a common but often overlooked issue—an HVAC condensate line leak. More generally, an HVAC system maintains good indoor air quality and provides thermal comfort (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency).
Thus, a leak connected to the HVAC system affects the moisture levels in one’s home. If not caught in time, this problem can lead to significant damage, and that’s precisely what happened with one of our recent clients in Allen, Texas.
The Initial Discovery of the HVAC Condensate Line Leak
Our customer, a kind woman who lived alone and worked long hours, was unaware of her HVAC condensate line leak until the damage had already started to show. She first noticed the issue when her laminate flooring began to buckle and warp. Concerned about what was happening, she reached out to us for help.
Our client used a bucket to collect all the water from her HVAC system.
During our initial phone consultation, we learned that her HVAC system was in a closet. We asked her to check inside, and sure enough, she found the condensate line leaking. Quick on her feet, she placed a bucket under the leak to prevent further water damage. Unfortunately, the damage to her floors had already been done.
The Extent of the Water Damage
When our certified restoration technicians arrived at her home, we conducted a thorough inspection to assess the extent of the damage. Using a moisture meter, we discovered that the water from the HVAC condensate line leak had spread under the laminate flooring. When we removed the flooring, we could see clear signs of water damage— the underside of the laminate was wet, and there was noticeable swelling.
The damaged drywall and wet laminate indicated extensive water damage.
We carefully removed all the affected sections of laminate flooring. The swelling and warping were too severe to save the material. Our technicians also checked other areas of the home to ensure the HVAC condensate line leak didn’t cause more widespread water damage.
Uncovering Hidden Issues
Once the laminate flooring was removed, we discovered the water had reached the carpet in an adjacent bedroom. When we lifted the carpet, we noticed it had started to delaminate—a clear indication that the carpet’s backing was separating from the carpet fibers. Unfortunately, the carpet is beyond repair when delamination occurs and must be removed.
The delamination of the carpet (left) and found vinyl squares (right).
As we peeled back the carpet, we found yet another layer of flooring underneath—vinyl squares. This hidden layer surprised us and the homeowner, but as we often say, you never know what you’ll uncover during a restoration project. The old vinyl had not suffered as much damage, and we determined it could remain in place after we thoroughly dried the area.
Addressing Drywall and Baseboard Damage
Water damage doesn’t just impact flooring. We continued our inspection and found that the baseboards were severely compromised. Upon removal, one section of drywall behind the baseboards collapsed—likely a combination of water damage from the HVAC condensate line leak and the age of the materials.
We removed the affected drywall to ensure the area would dry properly and to prevent mold growth. This step was essential to creating a healthy environment for our client and preparing the space for future renovations.
Dehumidification: An Essential Step in Restoration
Dehumidification is a critical part of our restoration process. This step helps eliminate excess moisture from the air, reducing the risk of mold and further damage. In this particular case, we set up a dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.
The dehumidifiers help dry the affected rooms.
The dehumidifier’s settings showed the room’s current temperature and humidity level and the amount of moisture it was extracting. By closely monitoring these readings, we ensured the moisture levels dropped, and the room dried out completely. This thorough approach allows us to prevent any lingering issues that could cause problems down the line.
A Job Well Done
After completing the necessary steps to stop the water damage caused by the HVAC condensate line leak, we left the home in good shape for future renovations. While the flooring and some drywall had to be removed, we could halt the spread of damage and leave the space ready for repairs.
The homeowner was pleased with the speed and professionalism of our work and felt confident knowing that her home was safe from further water damage. As with any restoration project, the earlier the issue is addressed, the easier it is to prevent long-term damage. In this case, our customer’s quick thinking—calling us as soon as she noticed the problem—made all the difference.
Suffering from HVAC Problems? Call PuroClean of North McKinney Today!
For professional restoration services, contact PuroClean of North McKinney. Addressing water damage can be overwhelming, so it’s essential to contact experienced professionals. Our dedicated team, known as “The Paramedics of Property Damage®,” is committed to providing rapid, high-quality restoration services.
We’ll assess the damage thoroughly and implement a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs, ensuring your property is restored to its pre-loss condition efficiently. For expert assistance, contact us today at (945) 234-4566.
