Regular maintenance of your air conditioner is crucial to avoid potential leaks, which can quickly become a nightmarish and expensive problem. Many issues can cause a puddle of water under your home’s AC unit, but it is a sign that something is wrong with the unit. If not addressed, pooling of water can lead to water damage or other complications. Here are the most frequent reasons why the AC in your home leaks water.
1. Clogged Drain Line
A clogged condensate drain line is one of the most common reasons home AC leaks. The condensate drain line is integral to the AC system because it sends the collected moisture to a drain. Over time, mold, dust and dirt can begin to clog the drain line. When the sewer line is closed, the water has nowhere to go, so it backs up and flows. When this happens, you may notice water around the unit, which can cause many problems. Depending on its location, water from the unit can cause damage to your floors, walls, and even roof. Contaminated water is a breeding ground for molds.
2. Drain a damaged or Rusted Pan
If you have an older AC unit, water leaks due to a damaged or rusted drain pan. A drain pan is supposed to catch and hold water or condensation from the evaporator coils. Sometimes, these drainage pans rust due to exposure to water and the elements. If the drain pan for your home’s AC unit is plastic, it can also crack and become damaged as it ages.
3. Improper installation
Another significant issue related to water leakage from air conditioning systems is improper installation. If the condensate drain line of the AC unit is installed incorrectly, several problems can affect its functionality and efficiency. The leak may be caused by improper alignment or a loose connection.
4. Dirty Air Filter
If you notice water around your AC unit, the solution may be as simple as changing the air filter. A dirty air filter can cause your AC unit to leak because it blocks the air from your AC’s evaporator coil and freezes it. When that ice starts to melt, the drain pan can overflow because it fills with water too quickly.
5. Low Coolant Level
Low refrigerant levels in your home AC unit can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. Eventually, the coil melts and drips into the drain pan, overflowing. This problem is similar to having a dirty air filter. If it’s the refrigerant levels, you may also hear a bubbling or hissing noise from your AC unit.
6. Improper size of AC Unit
When it comes to the correct size of air conditioner for your home, an AC that is too small will not work as it should, but you will also see issues with an AC unit that is too large. If the unit cools too quickly, it will not run long enough to kick in the dehumidifier and remove the moisture in the air. Excess condensation can lead to water pooling around the unit.
7. Blocked Air Vents
A blocked air vent on your home’s air conditioning unit can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, which can lead to a leak as the evaporator coil melts. Making sure there are no blockages in your home’s air vents means going from room to room and inspecting them, cleaning them if necessary, and removing anything covering them, such as furniture or other items.
8. Damaged Condensate Line Triggers AC Safety Switch
An air conditioner can turn off suddenly due to a safety feature that prevents it from causing water damage. This feature activates when the part that removes the water from the air conditioner is blocked or broken, causing the water to overflow. By turning off the air conditioner, this feature stops more water from escaping and damaging the system and the area around it.
What can be done to prevent AC leaks?
Watch for water stains near the unit, unusual dripping sounds, or a decrease in cooling efficiency. Most importantly, get annual maintenance. A professional HVAC technician can spot any signs of a leak and go above and beyond by performing preventative maintenance such as lubricating moving parts, cleaning indoor and outdoor HVAC units, recalibrating the thermostat, and inspecting for loose seals and wires.
At Custom Air Inc. in Browns Summit, NC, we are experts in AC repairs, replacements, and ductless mini-split AC services for area homes. Our friendly team also includes heat pumps, installation, and repair services. Contact Custom Air Inc. for more information today!
