Is your air conditioner leaking or having other problems? Call the professionals of Topline Heating & Air at 717-628-6285 for fast and effective solutions.
Air conditioners help keep indoor temperatures cool and free of humidity. After removing moisture from the air, the unit condenses and drains the extra water outdoors. If you notice a puddle of water inside your home, the unit could have a problem.
The answer to the question, “Why is my AC unit leaking water?” is almost always a mechanical issue inside the unit.
If you notice excess water leaking from your air conditioner, turn it off and call our experts at Topline Heating & Air. Continuing to run the unit while it leaks can cause even more problems — and even a total failure — not to mention water damage inside your home. Our team provides comprehensive help with HVAC in Douglasville, PA, and the surrounding area, with a commitment to helping our neighbors stay cool.
Determining the exact source of the leak, why its occurring, and how to fix it requires professional expertise. That said, one of the following issues is most likely causing the leak.
1. Dirty Air Filters
Dirty air filters are a common cause of problems with air conditioners. The filter catches dust, dirt, and other contaminants as air flows over the evaporator coils, ensuring that they function properly and help preserve indoor air quality. Ideally, you should change the filter every 60 to 90 days or whenever it becomes excessively dirty or clogged.
When the filter is too dirty, it cannot remove debris from the air. That debris then collects on the evaporator coils, preventing warm air from passing freely over the coils. In time, this can cause the coils to freeze over because the refrigerant isn’t absorbing heat, and frozen coils lead to leaks.
Changing the air filter could help improve the air conditioner’s efficiency. Still, chances are, if the unit is already leaking, that may not fix the problem. An HVAC technician will likely need to repair the evaporator coils as well in this case.
2. Clogged Condensate Drain
Another common answer to the question, “Why is my AC unit leaking water?” is that something prevents the condensation from draining from the unit. This could be a drain line clog, a drain line or pan crack, or a disconnected drain line.
Inspect the drain line and pan for damage to determine if it’s the source of the water leak. If you see any cracks or rust or notice the drain line is not connected, replacing the damaged parts should correct the problem.
A clogged drain line usually requires professional help. Over time, mold, dirt, and other debris can clog the pipes and drain pan, causing the condensation to back up and into your home. If removing debris from the drain pan at the base of the air handler doesn’t clear the clog, a technician can use specialized tools and chemicals to eliminate the blockage.
3. Refrigerant Leaks
If the AC leaks and isn’t cooling your home, the issue is probably a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant removes heat from the air as it passes over the evaporator coils.
It can get too cold and ice over when the unit is low on refrigerant, and this doesn’t occur. As this ice melts, it creates more water than the drain pan can handle, causing it to overflow.
It’s similar to what happens when the coils get too dirty, except, in this case, a technician needs to find the source of the refrigerant leak, repair it, and fix the evaporator coils.
4. Condensation Buildup
Water leaking from your air conditioning vents or air ducts can indicate excess condensation. Some condensation inside an AC unit is normal, as it naturally occurs when air conditioners remove moisture from the air. However, too much can cause significant water damage and encourage mold growth in the ductwork.
Extra condensation can occur for several reasons. For example, a dirty air filter and clogs within the drain line or condensate pan can prevent airflow through the HVAC system. Inadequate airflow causes the air inside the ducts to get too cold, creating condensation that leaks into your home.
If the ducts aren’t adequately insulated, condensation can form on their exteriors when warm air comes in contact with them. Inadequate insulation can also cause this problem. In addition, poor ventilation and roof leaks that increase indoor humidity could cause water to leak from vents and air ducts.
If you know that your attic and roof are in good condition and have adequate insulation, addressing the excess condensation issue means repairing the air conditioner. Changing the air filter and keeping the coils clean can help prevent blockages that create leaks.
5. Incorrect Installation
Homeowners often ask, “Why is my AC unit leaking water?” soon after a new window air conditioner or HVAC unit installation. Installing window air conditioners at a slight backward angle ensures water drains outside.
Central AC units need flat, level surfaces to ensure proper drainage. Otherwise, water can leak back into the house.
A drain line that’s too small for the air conditioner can also cause a water leak. Choosing an experienced HVAC contractor to install your air conditioner prevents these issues and ensures your AC works without leaks.
Count on Topline Heating & Air for All Your HVAC Needs
A leaking air conditioner is inconvenient and requires prompt attention to prevent significant water damage. Fortunately, you can rely on us for expert repairs and the highest level of customer service.
We have a reputation for five-star customer service and stand behind our work with industry-leading warranties. When you call us asking, “Why is my AC unit leaking water?” you can be confident that we’ll find the answer and correct the problem.
To learn about our AC repair services or schedule an appointment for system repairs or maintenance, call us at 717-628-6285. We provide 24/7 emergency services and are ready to help you solve all your HVAC problems.