A leaking air conditioner indicates a problem with your cooling system and can result in significant water damage. We’ll explore what may cause a leak and when to call a professional.
Condensation Is a Normal Byproduct of Air Conditioning
Air conditioners cool your home by pulling heat from the indoor air and transferring it outside using refrigerant. As warm air passes over the cold evaporator coil inside your AC system, moisture in the air condenses, similar to how water forms on a cold drink on a hot day. That moisture then drips into a drain pan and is carried out of your home through a drain line, typically located near your outdoor AC unit. If you see water slowly dripping from this pipe, it’s usually a sign that your system is working properly, not that something is wrong.
Water Pooling Outside
A central AC system can produce as much as 20 gallons of condensation daily. On hot, dry days, that water usually evaporates quickly, so you might not notice it. On humid days, however, the moisture evaporates more slowly, and it’s common to see a small puddle form beneath the drain pipe. However, if you notice standing water that doesn’t go away, it’s a good idea to have an HVAC technician inspect your system to determine the cause and fix the issue.
Leakage Inside Your Home Is Never Normal
While condensation is a natural part of the cooling process, your air conditioner is designed to direct all that moisture safely outside. If you notice water pooling on your floor or accumulating around the air handler or vents, it’s a sign of a problem. This issue requires prompt AC repair. Leaks inside can cause significant water damage to your home and may also harm the indoor unit. Water exposure can damage electrical components, cause rust or corrosion, and lead to blower motor failure.
Clogged Drain Line
Over time, your AC’s drain line can become clogged with debris, mold, or algae, blocking water flow out of your home. When this happens, condensation backs up into the drip pan. Most systems have a safety device called a float switch that shuts off the system before the pan overflows. However, if that switch malfunctions or your system doesn’t have one, water can leak into your house. Seasonal AC maintenance includes clearing the drain line, which is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent these kinds of leaks during peak cooling season.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
The evaporator coil should never develop ice in a properly functioning AC system. When it does, it usually signals an underlying issue. A common cause is low refrigerant pressure. Another is restricted airflow, which can result from a dirty air filter, blocked vents, debris buildup around the outdoor unit, or problems with the blower or condenser fan.
A frozen coil puts excessive strain on your system and can lead to serious damage. When the ice eventually melts, it can overwhelm the condensate drain and lead to leaks inside your home. If you notice signs of a frozen coil, shut off your AC to prevent further strain and start thawing the system. Contact us for emergency AC services to diagnose the issue.
Damaged Drip Pan
The drip pan under your evaporator coil can corrode, crack, or become brittle, especially in older systems. If that happens, it will allow water to leak into your home. This is another reason seasonal AC maintenance is so important. During a routine visit, our technician will clean the drip pan and check for any signs of rust, damage, or wear that could lead to leaks.
Failed Condensate Pump
Most AC systems rely on gravity to drain condensation away from the indoor unit. However, when the layout of a home doesn’t allow for a downward slope, a condensate pump is installed to move the water out. If the pump fails, the water can’t drain properly and will begin to back up. This can quickly lead to a leak around your indoor unit and cause water damage.
Trusted AC Maintenance and Repair in Akron
Lakes Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Inc. is located in Akron, OH. Our company has installed and serviced ducted and ductless ACs in Northeast Ohio since 1974. If your cooling system is leaking water, our technicians will diagnose the problem quickly and repair it reliably. Call us today to schedule service, or book your appointment online.
