Why Is My AC Leaking Water?

Your air conditioner works tirelessly to keep your home cool throughout the year. However, when issues arise and affect its performance, they can expose you and your loved ones to uncomfortable heat levels. Not only does AC trouble reduce your unit's efficiency, but it can also lead to higher utility bills if left unattended. It's crucial to contact a trusted HVAC technician promptly.

If you've noticed your AC dripping water, you're not alone. Whether the water leaks outside or inside your living space, addressing the issue promptly is vital. Numerous reasons can cause your AC to leak water, and consulting an HVAC professional can help pinpoint the root cause. An expert will promptly identify the problem's source and stop your AC's water leakage.

Some common reasons for AC water leakage include:

Below, we'll guide you in determining the cause of your AC leakage and, most importantly, how to fix the leak.

If your AC unit leaks, you'll want to check the evaporator coil first. The evaporator coil is located inside the blower compartment, also known as the air handler. The blower component is responsible for reducing the temperature of the refrigerant so that it can absorb heat. Once the refrigerant has entered the evaporator coil, it absorbs heat from the warm air blowing over the coils. The moisture in the air is then condensed into water that passes over the coils, helping to reduce your home's temperature.

If the temperature of the refrigerant drops too low, it can cause the evaporator coil to freeze over. Once the ice has thawed enough, the resulting liquid will gather inside the drain pan. The water from the melted ice may begin to overflow, causing water to puddle onto your floor.

If the problem doesn't concern the evaporator coil, the next step is to locate the drain pain. Your AC unit's drain pain is located directly below the indoor evaporator coil. When warm air blows over the coils, it causes condensate to form. The purpose of the drain pan is to collect the condensate and redirect it to a drain pipe that leads outdoors. This helps prevent the liquid from overflowing and leaking out into your home.

If your drain pan has become cracked or otherwise damaged, it will struggle to hold water properly. This will cause the condensate to spill out onto your floor. While the leak may only be a steady drip initially, the liquid will quickly accumulate over time and pose a serious risk of water damage to your home.

Another possible culprit is the condenser. The condenser is the outdoor component of your air conditioning unit. Its main purpose is to remove heat from the air inside your home, helping to reduce the temperature of your living space. The condenser is connected to the indoor AC unit via copper tubing, which carries refrigerant vapor.

The most common form of condenser damage is corrosion. A condenser can become corroded when it interacts with water containing a high concentration of minerals. Damage may also occur when dirt, dust, and other forms of debris cause the condenser coils to become clogged and dirty.

Refrigerant is a chemical that vaporizes or expands to produce a cooling effect. The three main types of refrigerant found in modern HVAC systems are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)/R-22, and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)/R-410A. The main goal of AC coolant is to transfer heat and humidity out of your home to cool down your space.

There are many causes of refrigerant leaks, from normal wear and tear to pinhole leaks. These complications can cause liquid to pool onto your floor and create damage. Be sure to contact a skilled HVAC technician who will quickly pinpoint the cause of the issue.

If your AC is dripping water, you might have your thermostat to blame. A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to a host of issues that impact the performance of your HVAC system. Examples include short cycling, a lack of cool air, uneven cooling, and a faulty blower fan. These problems can impact various AC parts and create a leak.

Whether you're dealing with an indoor or outdoor leak, don't hesitate to contact a reputable pro if your AC is leaking water. This will help give you peace of mind that you're handling your AC problems safely and effectively.

Your drain or condensate line collects condensate from the air conditioner's drain pan. It then transports the condensate from the indoor air handler to the outside of your home. From here, the drain line safely disposes of the condensate by fully draining it outside your house. This process prevents excess water from seeping into your home and causing damage.

If enough debris accumulates inside your condensate line, it will become clogged. This will cause water to overflow from the drain pan. Because this overflowing liquid has nowhere else to go, it will leak into your home, creating the pool of water you see on your floor. Unwanted leakages may also lead to mold growth and drywall damage over time.

Contact George Brazil today at (602) 842-0009 for a free estimate. Our team is well-versed in everything heating and cooling, making us the top trusted choice for all of your HVAC needs.