Water heater's condensate drain repeatedly clogs, causing water to back up inside the unit.

Safety: Turn off power. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling condensate.

• Review drain routing: Ensure the condensate pipe runs with continuous downward slope to the drain, with minimal horizontal sections.
• Clean trap and line: Remove the condensate trap and flush it and the downstream piping with clean water until clear.
• Neutralizer maintenance: If a condensate neutralizer is installed, open it and replace or clean the media as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Install debris screen: If debris from the drain is entering the line, add a screen or trap at the drain connection.
• Test drainage: Pour water into the condensate tray and confirm free flow to the drain.