If you see AC leaking water, then it is a sign of an emergency, especially if you don’t know where it is coming from. Not only will it become difficult to fix, but it can also lead to further issues that can cause significant expense. At such times, professional help is what you need to find out the root cause and fix the damage.
Your air conditioner condenses water as part of the process of cooling your house. This moisture is usually drained off and gathered by the condensate system. If something gets in the way of that process, water can start to pool around the indoor unit, drip from the ceiling, and pool near the air handler.
Now there could be plenty of factors that can become the main reason for it, including:
- Dirty filter
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Clogged drain line
- Damaged drain pan
- Problem with the drainage system
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?
Moisture is taken out of the air through your air conditioner's cooling action. That moisture will be seen as condensation and must be led to a condensate drain pan and out of your home by a drain line.
This process may be unnoticed if everything functions as it should. If the drainage system is clogged or if any part of it doesn't function properly, however, the water has no place to go. Due to this, the water can overflow and show as a leak.
Some of the more common causes are:
- AC drain line clogged
- Algae growth in AC line
- Poor installation
- A broken condensate pump
- Dirty air filter
- Overflow switch
It is crucial to figure out what is causing the problem, as cleaning up the water won't address the root cause.
AC Drain Line Clogged? This Is One Of The Most Common Causes
While your air conditioner takes the water out of your home's air, it has to be disposed of somewhere. Dirt, dust, algae, and other debris can accumulate over time within the drain pipe.
Algae growth on AC line systems can be especially a problem for humid climates, as there will be moisture available to allow for biological growth.
If the line clogs, there will be a buildup of condensation that will not drain. Water can float up into the drain pan and overflow.
You may notice:
- Water around the indoor AC unit
- A full or overflowing drain pan
- Water that drips from the ceiling or air handler area
- The AC shutting off unexpectedly
- Musty odor in the vicinity of the unit.
Should I Keep Running an AC That Is Leaking Water?
Running a leaking AC is not a good idea. Unless you know the cause, it is best not to continue running the air conditioner that is leaking. Running the system may generate more condensation and cause more water to enter the house. This may escalate a minor HVAC issue into a bigger water damage problem.
Can An AC Leaking Water Cause Damage?
Yes, it can cause massive water damage to:
- Drywall and ceilings
- Flooring
- Insulation
- Wood framing
- Cabinets
- Paint and wall finishes
- Electrical components
Hidden leaks can particularly be a concern, as one may not be able to see the damage until there are stains, smell, bubbling paint, or other things.
Conclusion:
Is your AC leaking water? This is not something you should ignore, considering the additional issues it can bring on your HVAC system. The best thing to do at such times is to consult with a professional and get everything fixed. Even if the water might stop leaking, it is still important to get your unit inspected to avoid any potential issues that can damage your property and AC unit.
AAA Modern Air is one of the leading companies that homeowners and commercial places trust for these issues. Get in touch with us if you find yourself in a similar issue; we will be more than happy to assist you and offer complete solutions at affordable rates.
FAQs
Can I still use my AC if it's leaking water?
Avoid running the AC if it is leaking until the source of the leak is determined. If you still continue to run the AC, it will generate condensation and contribute to the possibility of water damage.
How to check if the AC drain line is blocked?
Some of the common symptoms are water around the inside unit of the cooling system, an overflowing drain pan, strange odors, or the cooling system failing without reason.
How do I know when to call an HVAC technician for AC leaking water?
Calling and booking a professional service is imperative when you have these signs:
- The leak continues or keeps coming back
- The AC freezes over
- You cannot identify the source of the leak
- Water is coming into contact with electrical components
- You notice visible water damage around the AC system
- The AC stops working or starts showing other unusual symptoms
