We've lived in this house for 12 years and since the first year have had water collection in the in-slab air ducts (the down stairs ones) when there was a LOT of rain. Originally, we attributed that to a drainage problem that we had with an adjacent lot. After the drainage was fixed, the problem persisted, but only when there was exceptionally heavy rain. About 5 years ago, I thought that the airduct/water problem was due to my aging rain gutters. At the time, I couldn't afford to replace them, but I repaired the bad spots, cleaned them well and extended the down spouts far away from the foundation. So far, so good. This year, we replaced the gutters with awesome, covered models which are very efficient. However, (and I think completely by coincidence) even moderate rains are causing water in the ducts. A little history. When the water got into the ducts in past, I just waited a day or so until the water level subsided. We've never known it if we were having mold problems and while annoying, we've lived with it. Last week, we were having company so I bought a small pump and to my surprise pumped about 500 gallons of water out! No kidding. (garden hose down through a vent opening) Because these ducts are in my foundation slab, I can't look at them. However, I need any and all ideas. My duct professional (hvac guy) said I'd have to be clever because there isn't a real 'fix'. Someone somewhere must have experienced this before. At this point, I cannot pinpoint the actual source or pathway of the water that is getting in the ducts. Help, and thanks....
- posted
17 years ago