Why Is My AC Leaking Water Inside?

For most homeowners, their air conditioner remains unnoticed until it malfunctions. However, AC problems can quickly impact the comfort of your home and your family's well-being. If left unresolved, these issues can lead to decreased efficiency and overall comfort levels.

One frequently asked question is, "Why is my AC leaking water?" You might observe water leakage outside your house, but it's more common to notice it inside your living space.

If you're experiencing water trickling from your air conditioner into your home, it's crucial to address the issue promptly. There are various reasons why your AC may leak water inside, and we will explore some potential causes in this blog:

• Clogged condensate line
• Leaky drain pan
• Frozen evaporator coil
• Damaged condenser
• Refrigerant leak
• Malfunctioning thermostat

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The condensate line in your air conditioning system removes excess moisture from your indoor air. This line collects condensate, a liquid accumulating in the drain pan, and safely transports it outside your home. Doing so prevents water damage and maintains a comfortable living environment.

However, when debris and particles accumulate inside the condensate line, it becomes clogged. This obstruction disrupts the proper flow of condensate, leading to a backup of water in the drain pan. As a result, the excess liquid overflows and leaks into your home, forming a pool of water on your floor.

This water leakage is an inconvenience and can have long-term consequences. If left unaddressed, the pooling water can promote mold growth and cause damage to your drywall. Furthermore, the clogged condensate line can impact the overall efficiency of your air conditioning system, affecting its performance and potentially leading to further issues down the line.

Regular inspection and cleaning of the condensate line by a professional HVAC technician can prevent clogs and ensure that excess moisture is properly discharged outside your home.

The drain pan in your AC unit is vital in managing condensate that forms on the indoor evaporator coil. As warm air passes over the coils, condensation occurs, resulting in the accumulation of water. The purpose of the drain pan is to collect this condensate and guide it towards a drain pipe that leads outside. This ensures that the liquid is safely directed away from your home, preventing potential leaks or water damage.

However, if your drain pan becomes cracked or damaged, it loses its ability to hold water effectively. The condensate will then escape and create a puddle of liquid on your floor. Although it may start as a steady drip, the leakage will progressively worsen over time, posing a significant risk of water damage to your home.

Repairing or replacing the damaged pan will help restore proper functioning, ensuring the condensate is collected and directed away from your home as intended.

The evaporator coil, located in the air handler, plays a crucial role in cooling the refrigerant and absorbing heat from the air. When the temperature of the refrigerant drops too low, it can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. As the ice melts, the resulting water collects in the drain pan. If the pan overflows, water may puddle onto your floor.

Oftentimes, clogged air filters can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. Your AC relies on a healthy intake of warm air, so if your air filters are clogged, your coils will constantly be interacting with colder and colder air. Regular filter changes (or cleanings, if you have a ductless system) will help to prevent this.

The condenser, situated outdoors, is responsible for removing heat from the air inside your home. Corrosion is a common issue with condensers, occurring when the unit interacts with water that contains minerals. Additionally, debris accumulation, such as dirt and dust, can clog the condenser coils and lead to damage.

Keep shrubs and plants around your outdoor unit trimmed back to prevent potential clogs or damage. Regular cleanings during a tune-up will help as well.

Refrigerant is essential for the cooling process, as it transfers heat and humidity out of your home. Although it’s a closed-loop system that shouldn’t ever leak, it can happen. These leaks can cause issues such as a frozen evaporator coil (as mentioned above) which can lead to water leakage. Refrigerant is a toxic chemical substance that should only be handled by qualified HVAC technicians. If you suspect a leak, schedule an AC repair with a trustworthy company. They can identify and address the root cause of the leak.

A faulty thermostat can cause various issues, affecting the performance of your HVAC system. Problems like short cycling, lack of cool air, uneven cooling, or a faulty blower fan can contribute to leaks. These issues can impact different AC components and result in water leakage.

If you notice water leaking from your AC unit, it's important to contact a reputable HVAC professional.They can accurately diagnose the problem and provide effective solutions, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of your AC system. Prompt action will help prevent further damage and restore the comfort of your home.

Don't overlook the importance of resolving AC water leakage. Taking proactive steps and seeking professional assistance can ensure a comfortable living environment and prevent potential long-term complications. Call Jon Wayne for an AC repair to get your unit up and running again in no time. Be sure to also schedule AC tune-ups on a regular basis to keep further problems at bay. Our team always upholds its values of integrity, honesty, and convenience, no matter what type of project we’re working on.