HVAC Horror Story | The Leaky Air Conditioner

Imagine the horror of coming home to a leaking AC unit after a long day at work. Your air conditioner leaking water is the last thing you want to deal with, but there are some common causes and quick fixes to a leaky AC unit. These are the common culprits and solutions to your leaky AC.

Suspect #1: Clogged Drain Line

The most common cause of an AC unit leaking inside is a clogged drain line. The drain line for your AC unit is responsible for transporting the moisture created during the air conditioning process outside your home. If dust and dirt have accumulated in the line, this can obstruct the flow and cause a back of water into your home.

Fix a Clogged Drain Line

Check for blockage around your drain line and inside. You can use a wet/dry vacuum or a pipe cleaner to try and remove dirt and debris. You can also try to flush the pipe with diluted vinegar. If you are unable to remove the clog, it is time to call an HVAC professional.

Suspect #2: Dirty Air Filter

If your air filter is dirty and clogged, airflow into the system is restricted. A clogged filter can cause the evaporator coil to freeze due to inadequate heat transfer. When the evaporator coil begins to thaw, water in your drain, pain will overflow and can cause leakage.

Change Your Air Filters

To avoid this situation altogether, change your 1-inch sir filters every month. If you have to thaw your evaporator coil, turn off your air conditioner and set it to fan-only. If you need to speed up the process, try using a hair dryer to melt the ice but do not use sharp objects to chip at the ice.

Suspect #3: Condensate Pan Damage

If your drain pan is cracked or damaged, water from the cooling process will leak from it. Water collects here as the evaporator coil pulls excess humidity from the air, and the vapor is turned into water droplets.

Fix Your Damaged Drain Pan

This fix requires an HVAC professional. Reach out today if you suspect your drain pan is damaged or cracked.

Suspect #4: Leaky Refrigerant

If you have a refrigerant leak, it can also lead to a frozen evaporator coil.

Fix a Refrigerant Leak

A refrigerant leak is another situation that should be left to the professional. Refrigerants can be toxic if inhaled. They are potentially dangerous chemicals that should be handled with proper equipment and disposed of properly.

Your air conditioner leaking water is an aspect that one of our Aero DS technicians would be looking for during your routine maintenance check. During your routine maintenance, your HVAC professional will thoroughly inspect your HVAC unit for any issues. Regular HVAC maintenance is essential to prevent many of the common issues we see with aging HVAC units. Call us today to schedule your routine maintenance.

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