Air conditioners remove humidity from your home by condensing moisture, draining through a small tube into a pan inside the unit. However, if you notice excess water leaking, it could signal a bigger problem. Here are the most common causes of air conditioner leaks and how to fix them.
8 Possible Causes of Water Leaking from Air Conditioners
There are several reasons why your air conditioner might be leaking water, and understanding the root cause is essential for finding a solution.
1. Clogged or Dirty Drain Line
A clogged or dirty drain line is one of the most common reasons for water leakage in air conditioners. The drain line is responsible for carrying away the water that the unit collects. When it becomes blocked, the water has nowhere to go, leading to leaks inside your home.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the AC.
- Remove the drain pan.
- Use a small brush or pipe cleaner to remove debris from the drain line.
- Replace the pan and ensure everything is secure before restarting the unit.
2. Faulty Pump
If your air conditioner uses a pump to remove excess water, a malfunction can cause water to build up and leak from the unit. A faulty pump needs to be addressed quickly to prevent water damage.
How to Fix It:
- Check for clogs in the drain line, as they can cause the pump to malfunction.
- If the pump still doesn’t work after clearing the line, it’s best to contact a professional technician to have it repaired or replaced.
3. Improper Installation
If your recently installed air conditioner leaks water, improper installation could be the culprit. When an AC unit isn’t levelled correctly, water can pool and leak instead of draining out properly.
How to Fix It:
- Ensure the unit is level and all connections are tight. If you need help with this, call a professional to inspect and correct the installation.
4. Condensation Buildup
Condensation naturally forms in your AC as it cools the air, but if too much builds up, it can overflow and cause water leakage. This is often due to blocked airflow or an AC unit working harder than it should.
How to Fix It:
- Regularly clean the filters and coils to improve airflow.
- Make sure the temperature and humidity settings are appropriate for your home.
- Clear debris around the unit to ensure proper ventilation.
5. Low Refrigerant
Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC’s coils to freeze, which leads to water leakage when the ice melts. The low refrigerant also causes your AC to work harder than necessary, making it less efficient and more prone to leaks.
How to Fix It:
- If you suspect a low refrigerant, contact a technician to inspect and refill the refrigerant levels. Handling refrigerants requires professional expertise.
6. Dirty Air Filters
If your air conditioner’s filters are dirty or clogged, they can restrict airflow, causing the coils to freeze. When the ice melts, excess water can leak from the unit.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the unit and remove the filter.
- Clean the filter by tapping it to remove debris or using a vacuum attachment.
- Rinse the filter with water and let it air dry completely before reinstalling it.
7. Disconnected Drain Line
If the drain line becomes disconnected, the water that should be funnelled outside may spill onto the floor instead. A disconnected or loose drain line is a simple but common cause of water leaks.
How to Fix It:
- Check if the drain line is correctly connected to the unit.
- Reattach or tighten the connection, ensuring the line is routed correctly to drain away from your home.
8. Frozen Coil
A frozen coil is often a result of restricted airflow due to dirty filters or ductwork issues. When the coil freezes, it prevents proper cooling and leads to water leakage when the ice melts.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the AC and let the coil thaw.
- Clean or replace the air filters to improve airflow.
- If the issue persists, contact a professional technician for further diagnosis.
How to Prevent Water Leakage from Air Conditioners
Taking proactive steps to maintain your air conditioner can help prevent water leaks. Here’s what you can do:
- Ensure Proper Installation: If you’re installing a new AC, make sure a professional does it to avoid installation issues that can cause leaks.
- Regular Cleaning: To maintain efficiency and prevent blockages, clean your unit, including the coils, filters, and drain line, at least once a year.
- Change Air Filters: Replace or clean the air filters every 30-45 days to ensure optimal airflow and reduce the risk of frozen coils.
- Clear Debris: Keep the area around your unit clear of leaves and other debris that could block airflow and contribute to condensation buildup.
- Check Humidity Levels: Maintaining a comfortable indoor humidity level can help reduce excess moisture and condensation inside your air conditioner.
Following these steps, you can keep your air conditioner running smoothly and reduce the likelihood of water leaks.
Final Thoughts
Excessive water leakage from your air conditioner is often a sign that something is wrong. Whether it’s a clogged drain line, low refrigerant, or dirty filters, addressing the issue promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your AC continues functioning efficiently. While some maintenance tasks, like cleaning the filters or clearing the drain line, can be handled independently, other issues—such as low refrigerant or faulty pumps—are best left to professionals.
If you’re dealing with persistent water leakage or need expert help with your AC, it’s time to reach out for AC repair in Hamilton. At Hamilton Home Comfort, our experienced technicians are ready to assess and resolve your air conditioning issues quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your home stays comfortable.
