AC Is Leaking Water
As a homeowner, you’re eventually going to encounter an air conditioner leaking water. What starts as a mild inconvenience can destroy ceilings, walls, and floors, not to mention the AC’s performance, and efficiency. What’s worse – mold can develop in moisture ridden areas and pollute the air you breath. And before you know it, your AC won’t turn on or not cooling.
Reasons Why Your AC Is Leaking Water?
Clogged Condensate Drain
One reason why the AC is leaking water is that the condensate drain is clogged. Things such as dirt, dust, or mold can clog it. When you have a clogged condensate drain line, the water can’t drain outside so it backs up and leaks back into the home. If you have a float switch, the good news is it will shut down the system to avoid more damage.
Air Filter is Dirty Can Be Why the AC Leaking Water
Air filters need changing out and it depends on your home as to when to do this. If you have pets, it should be every 30 days. If you don’t have pets, it can be 90 days or more. Nowadays, there are smart air filters that will tell you via the app that it needs changing.
A dirty air filter puts the ac system into overdrive and can cause it to stop working properly. In addition, it can keep the air from flowing over the evaporator coil and cause the evaporator coil to freeze. When the frozen coil melts, the water can cause the pan to overflow. This will also cause the ac unit to be leaking water and mold can form.
Refrigerant is Low in the AC
If the refrigerant is low, then the pressure inside the AC is low as well. This also can cause freezing of the evaporator coil and a mess. If you check the air filter and it is not dirty, then check the refrigerant levels. You might also hear a bubbling sound or hissing and these will indicate there is a refrigerant leak. The good news is if you catch the leak in time, you may spare damage to your home. However, if not, you may need to purchase a new unit.
Drip Pan Broken or Needs Repair
An AC unit that is between 12-15 years old may need a new drip pan. Replacing the pan is a good idea to see if this takes care of the issue.
