What is causing your AC System to Leak Water?
Why does water sometimes leak from air conditioning systems? This is a question many homeowners have asked themselves because it is a very common problem. It’s actually one of the most common reasons homeowners need urgent repairs. Having water leak into your walls or ceiling can be a scary experience and it’s an issue that needs to be fixed quickly.
Fortunately, repairing water leakage isn’t too hard for a trained technician. Learn what the common causes of AC water leakage are and what most likely needs to be done to repair the system below.
Clogged or Disconnected Drain Line
A clogged condensate drainpipe can make your AC system’s drain pan overflow. This is probably the most frequent cause of water leakage from a central AC system, especially as summer temperatures rise. The clog can be caused by debris like dirt, rust or algae.
The drainpipe could also be disconnected. If an AC system is improperly installed, drainpipe fittings may not be secure. Over time the pipe can loosen and eventually disconnect from the AC unit, allowing the condensate to drain through the ceiling, walls or onto the floor.
Drain Pan Position or Cracks
The evaporator coil inside your AC system collects condensation from the cooling process. As warm and humid air passes through, the inside coil loses some of its moisture. This moisture then drips into a drain pan that has to be angled correctly so water can drain properly. It’s similar to why bathtubs are positioned at a slope so all the water can fall into the drain. If this is the case, a technician may only need to reposition the drain pan to create a more efficient slope.
In some cases, however, the pan may require replacement. Cracks can form in it over time, which leads to leakage.
Other potential causes of AC water leakage include:
– Condensate pump problems
– Clogged air filter
– Condensate buildup in un-insulated ductwork
– Low refrigerant
How to Avoid Water Leakage Damage
These tips will reduce the likelihood of AC water leakage:
– Make sure your central AC system has a secondary drain line
– Install a drain pan overflow shut off switch
– Clean or change your HVAC air filter regularly
– Make sure ductwork is properly insulated
– Have your AC refrigerant levels checked regularly
– Keep your condensate pump free from mold and mildew by flushing it with a 50% bleach/water solution
– Schedule annual HVAC maintenance to minimize AC repairs
Call WG Speeks Heating and Air Conditioning Experts for Quality Air Conditioner Service
If you experience water leakage or other AC issues, such as Air Duct Cleaning and HVAC Repair and Installation, call us at 804.276.2800 804-276-2800 and see why W.G. Speeks has been the reliable Richmond, VA heating and air conditioning experts since 1943.
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One comment
Tobias Armstrong
July 6, 2016 at 3:37 pm
I had no idea that there were so many reasons that could cause an air conditioner to start leaking. I figured most of the issues would be from busted pipes or something along those line. The fact that something as simple as a clogged air filter can cause leakage is really actually surprising. I guess I’m going to have to start really looking out for my equipment better than I have been doing in the past. Thanks for the heads up!
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