Summer is here, and with it comes the inevitable heat that makes us all want to turn on our air conditioners. But what happens when you notice that your AC unit is leaking water inside? Not only can this be a nuisance, but it can also cause damage to your home if left untreated.
In this blog post, Orzech Heating & Cooling will dive into the causes of an air conditioner leaking water inside and provide practical solutions for fixing and preventing this issue.
So grab a drink and let’s get started!
What Causes an Air Conditioner to Leak Water Inside?
There are several reasons why your air conditioner might be leaking water inside.
1. Clogged condensate drain line
One common cause is a clogged condensate drain line. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate in the drain line, preventing water from properly draining out of the AC unit.
2. Damaged or blocked condensate pump
Another possible reason for an air conditioner leak is a damaged or blocked condensate pump. This pump is responsible for moving water away from the AC unit and into a drainage system outside your home. If it becomes damaged or blocked, water may begin to overflow and leak into your home.
3. Buildup on the evaporator coils
In some cases, ice buildup on the evaporator coils can also lead to an air conditioner leaking water inside. When these coils become too cold, they can freeze over with excess moisture trapped inside. As this ice melts, it may result in puddles of water forming around your AC unit.
4. Low refrigerant levels
Low refrigerant levels may also cause an air conditioner to leak water inside by causing the evaporator coil to freeze over due to inadequate airflow through the system. Faulty installation or maintenance issues could be behind any leaks that you’re seeing.
It’s important to have these investigated by professionals if you suspect them as possible causes of leaks in your AC system!
How to Fix a Leaking Air Conditioner
If you’re dealing with a leaking air conditioner, it’s important to act fast before the problem becomes worse. Here are some steps you can take to fix the issue:
1. Turn off Your Air Conditioner
The first thing you should do is turn off your air conditioner and unplug it from its power source.
2. Locate the Source of the Leak
Next, try to identify where the water is coming from. Check your condensate drain line or pan for any blockages or damage.
3. Clean Out Your Drain Line
If there’s a clog in your drain line, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any debris that may be blocking it.
4. Check Your Air Filter
A dirty air filter can cause an AC unit to freeze up, which leads to leaks as the ice melts on coils and drips into your home instead of being collected by a drain pan and piped away outside the house
5. Call a Professional Technician
If none of these solutions work or if the issue seems too complicated for DIY fixes, don’t hesitate to ask for help from professional technicians who’ll diagnose the problems!
Remember: Regular maintenance and cleaning of an AC unit prevents unnecessary AC repairs down the road!
How to Prevent an Air Conditioner from Leaking Water Inside
Preventing water leaks from your air conditioner is essential to keep it functioning efficiently and prolong its lifespan. Here are some tips on how to prevent an air conditioner from leaking water inside your home.
1. Proper AC installation
Make sure that the unit is installed correctly, with adequate support and a proper drainage system. The condensate drain line should be straight and have a downward slope to ensure that all of the water drains out effectively.
2. Regular check on the air filter
Regularly check the air filter and replace or clean it when necessary. A dirty or clogged filter can restrict airflow, causing ice buildup on the evaporator coil which may lead to excess water leakage.
3. Schedule HVAC maintenance
Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional HVAC technician who will thoroughly inspect your unit for any potential issues such as clogs in the drain line or refrigerant leaks that could cause water leaks.
4. Consider a dehumidifier
If you live in a humid environment or notice excessive moisture in your home, consider investing in a dehumidifier. This appliance helps regulate indoor humidity levels, reducing strain on your AC unit while also preventing mould growth caused by excess moisture.
Conclusion
A leaking air conditioner can be caused by various factors such as clogged drain lines, dirty filters, or low refrigerant levels. Fixing the issue may require some troubleshooting and DIY skills. However, it’s always recommended to seek professional help if you’re unsure about what to do.
To prevent your AC from leaking water inside, make sure to keep up with regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning or replacing filters and checking for any signs of wear and tear.
