Why Is My AC Leaking Water?

Your air conditioner plays a vital role in keeping your home comfortable. Unfortunately, a number of problems can stop your air conditioner from working its best, including leaks. If your AC has started leaking water, you’re probably wondering why it’s happening and how to fix it.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes, solutions, and preventative measures you can take to avoid future AC leaks.

Reasons Your Air Conditioner is Leaking

There are several reasons your AC may be leaking. Here are the most common causes and the steps you can take to fix your AC.

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

A clogged condensate drain line is one of the most common reasons for AC leakage. The condensate line is responsible for taking moisture created from the cooling process and channeling it outside. Over time, dirt and debris can build up in the drain line, blocking the water flow.

Solution:

To clear the clog, first turn off your AC system. Then, use a wet dry vacuum or a pipe cleaner to clear out the debris. You can also create a diluted vinegar solution with 50% vinegar and 50% water. Pour this into the pipe to flush out the clog. If the clog won’t clear, call a trusted HVAC contractor​ for assistance. Scheduling regular maintenance is the best way to keep your condensate drain line clear and prevent future clogs.

2. Dirty Air Filter

A dirty air filter can block airflow in your system, leading to a frozen evaporator coil. When the coil eventually thaws, water will overflow from the drain pan. This issue is common during high-use periods like summer.

Solution

To thaw the coil, simply turn off the AC and set the system to fan-only mode. Make sure to clean or replace your air filter regularly to prevent future ice buildup. You should check the air filter every month during the peak of summer and at least every three months during lighter use periods. A clean filter ensures proper airflow in your AC unit.

3. Damaged Drain Pan

Your AC’s drain pan collects water droplets from the evaporator coil. If it cracks or breaks, water can escape, causing AC leaks. Older units are particularly susceptible to having rusted or damaged drain pans.

Solution

In this situation, replacing the drain pan is the only way to prevent water leakage. This usually requires professional assistance. If the damage is minor, you can patch the pan with epoxy putty as a temporary fix. However, you’ll want to have the drain pan replaced to prevent future leaks and potential water damage.

4. Improper Installation

If your AC wasn’t installed properly, it may tilt in the wrong direction and not have adequate drainage. This can cause water to flow back into your home rather than draining outside.

Solution

Contact an HVAC contractor to inspect the unit and make necessary adjustments. Always ensure your AC unit is installed by a qualified HVAC technician. Professional installation ensures the unit is level and all components are connected correctly, reducing the risk of leaks​​.

5. Frozen Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil can freeze due to a refrigerant leak or blocked airflow. When it thaws, it overflows the drain pan​​. If you’ve been changing your AC filter regularly, this issue likely indicates a deeper problem with the system’s operation.

Solution

If your evaporator coil is freezing, contact a certified HVAC technician for help. They’ll inspect your system and determine if a refrigerant leak is causing the problem. To prevent this problem in the future, make sure to schedule regular AC maintenance. During this appointment, the technician will change your air filter and check refrigerant levels, which can prevent the evaporator coil from freezing in the first place.

6. Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

The condensate pump is responsible for removing excess water from your AC system. If it’s not working properly, water can accumulate and overflow.

Solution

Call a professional HVAC technician to assess the condensate pump and determine if repair or replacement is needed​​. To prevent future problems, make sure to regularly inspect the pump and clean it as needed. This preventative measure helps ensure the pump operates correctly and prevents water buildup.

7. Oversized Air Conditioner

An oversized AC unit can leak due to frequent cycling, which causes excess condensation​. Short cycling prevents the unit from properly dehumidifying the air, leading to water buildup.

Solution

Consult an HVAC technician to replace the unit with one that’s more appropriately sized. Proper sizing ensures efficient operation and prevents water leaks. It also prevents issues like short cycling and excess condensation​.

The Magic of Preventative Maintenance

Keeping up with regular HVAC maintenance is the best way to prevent all the problems mentioned in this post. A tune-up with a trained technician, scheduled just once a year, can catch a number of serious issues before they get worse​. Doing so won’t just prevent costly repairs, it will actually extend the life of your AC unit!

Stop Air Conditioning Leaks For Good

If your air conditioner is leaking water, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage. Whether it’s a clogged drain line, a dirty air filter, or something else, our team delivers fast, reliable AC repairs. Once we repair the issue, we hope you’ll turn to us for regular AC system maintenance.

Call (360) 218-2467 to schedule air conditioning repairs.