Why Is My AC Leaking Water?

Discovering your air conditioner is leaking water can be alarming. Not only does it signal a malfunction that could affect your comfort, but it can lead to more serious damage if not addressed promptly. So, what causes your AC to leak, and how can you fix it?

There are several issues that can lead to your AC leaking water inside, including:

While some issues, like replacing a dirty air filter, are manageable on your own, others require the expertise of a professional. If your AC is leaking, it’s wise to consult with a trusted HVAC professional. Contact the Comfort Experts today for reliable advice and efficient service to ensure your unit is running smoothly and leak-free.

The condensate drain line keeps water moving away from your unit and outside your home. If it's clogged, the excess moisture caused by the evaporative process that cools your home pools under your AC unit. When clear, the drain line carries excess moisture out and away. Over time, dirt, algae, and other debris can build up in the drain line, limiting flow or blocking it completely. You can try to clean the clog out yourself or get help from a professional if you don't have the right tools.

The drain pan sits underneath the evaporator coil and collects the condensation that drips off the coil. While there shouldn't be a lot of water collected this way, it can build up over time. If the drain pan is metal, which is common, and starts to rust or develop any damage, it can let that water leak out onto your floor.

A damaged drain pan should be fairly obvious from a visual inspection, and it's a repair that most homeowners can handle. It's usually as easy as removing a few screws, taking off the old pan, and putting the new one in place.

A dirty air filter can cause various problems with your AC unit, from water leaks to total shutdown. A clogged filter causes water leaks by restricting airflow through the evaporator coil. Slow flow on the evaporator coil means it gets too cold, eventually freezing solid. Your air conditioner will eventually stop running due to the freeze, letting the coil melt. Any melting ice can overwhelm the capacity of the condensate line and drain pan, leading to a leak.

To prevent this issue, replace or clean your air filter regularly, typically every one to three months.

It might seem counterintuitive, but low refrigerant levels can also cause freezing which results in leaks. When the refrigerant level is too low, the pressure within the AC system drops, causing the evaporator coil to freeze. Low refrigerant levels are often a sign of a leak, requiring prompt attention from a professional HVAC technician.

We can locate and repair the leak, recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant, and ensure your AC unit is functioning properly. In many states, only licensed or certified HVAC technicians can transport refrigerant, making this a job for a pro.

Improper installation or lack of regular maintenance can also lead to water leaks from your AC unit. If your AC unit was not installed correctly, there could be issues with its positioning or the drainage system. For example, if the unit is not level, the condensate may not flow properly into the drain pan and out through the drain line.

Regular maintenance is also required to keep your AC unit running smoothly and prevent leaks. During a routine maintenance visit, an HVAC technician will inspect your system for potential issues, clean the components, and ensure everything is functioning correctly. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to a buildup of dirt and debris, clogged drain lines, and other problems that can cause water leaks.