One of the most common reasons people call for AC service is because of leaking water. They tend to be small leaks, but every big leak started out as a small leak. They need to be fixed.
Our guess is you don’t want water leaking into your home and that’s why you’re here. We have good news for you. There are 5 common causes for your AC to be leaking water.
But knowing the cause is one thing. You need to know how to fix the leaking water, too.
Don’t worry, we’re going to go over how to fix your leaking AC also.
5 Reasons Your AC is Leaking Water
1. Damaged overflow pan
The pan catches condensation from the A/C unit. It’s located directly under your evaporator coils in order to catch the water that drips off the coils.
Solution: If you’re noticing a leak, inspect the overflow pan to see if it’s damaged. It can crack or become rusted (from the water it catches). Check the corners, along the outside edges, and directly above the wet spot. Small holes and cracks can be patched with epoxy glue, but it’s usually best to replace a damaged overflow pan.
2. Clogged AC air filter
Dust and dirt can easily clog your filter. Most are meant to only be used for one to two months. During the summer, you should inspect the filter every month.
If the filter appears dirty, replace it immediately. This is easy.
A dirty filter can cause ice to form on the unit’s evaporator coils, and when that ice melts, it drips water.
Solution: This can be fixed by regularly replacing your filter (one to two months).
3. Backed-up condensate line
Wondering what the condensate line is and what it does? You’re not alone.
The condensate line drains condensation from the overflow pan to the outside or directly into a drainpipe. Over time, things like algae, mold, and mildew can accumulate and clog the line. When the line is clogged, water backs up and floods the overflow pan.
That’s why it’s best for the line to be clear.
Solution: To fix this, you can use a shop vac to suck up the material that’s blocking the line or call your local HVAC technician.
4. Broken condensate pump
When an HVAC system is in working order, the condensate pump turns on automatically when water contacts it.
This happens when water rises in the drip pan. When it reaches a certain point, the pump turns on.
If the condensate pump is broken or damaged, though, the water will overflow.
Solution: What do you do if this is happening? You’ll need to replace the pump. Contact your local HVAC technician to replace the pump.
5. Low refrigerant
If your system is low on refrigerant, the low pressure may cause the evaporator coil to freeze. When the coil melts, water overflows in the pan. And when the pan overflows, the water leaks into your home.
How do you know if your system’s low on refrigerant? Look for these things:
- Air conditioner not cooling effectively
- A hissing or bubbling noise
- Ice on the refrigerant line
- Sky-high energy bills
Solution: Since refrigerant is dangerous, it’s best to contact your local HVAC technician to fix this issue.
Contact Colman Heating & Air Conditioning Today for AC Service
Water is supposed to stay inside your AC system, not in your home. If you find water where it’s not supposed to be, we can help with a free estimate on maintenance, repair, or a new system.
Call Colman Heating & Air Conditioning today at (321) 269-4565
