Imagine you’re at home relaxing when your air conditioner starts leaking. This can be frustrating and can quickly cause damage to your home. Not only will it reduce your comfort during the summer, but it can also lead to water damage and mold growth. That said, understanding why your AC is leaking water can help you identify the issue. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common causes of air conditioner water leaks.
Condensate Line Has a Clog
One of the most common reasons for an AC leaking water is a clog in the condensate drain line. As your AC runs, it pulls humidity from the air, which condenses into water. This water normally flows through a drain line to an area outside. If this line clogs with dirt, dust, mold, or algae, the water backs up and leaks into your home.
Air Filters Need Changed
A dirty filter restricts airflow over the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze due to excessive cold. Once the ice melts, the water can easily overflow the drain pan, creating a leak. At Cranney’s, we recommend changing your air filter every two to three months as an effective way to prevent leaks and other AC problems.
Damaged Drain Pan
Your AC unit has a drain pan under the evaporator coil to collect condensation. As your cooling system ages, this pan can rust and crack. When the pan can no longer hold water, it will leak. If your air conditioner is 10 years old or older, inspect the drain pan for signs of damage and consider replacing it if necessary.
Refrigerant Levels are Low
Low refrigerant levels cause the evaporator coil to freeze, similar to the effect of a dirty air filter. When the coil thaws, it releases more water than the drain pan can accommodate, resulting in leakage. Low refrigerant is also one of the leading causes of poor cooling in your living space. If you notice hissing or bubbling sounds from the cooling unit, the refrigerant levels may be low. This issue is not something you can manage on your own, so contact Cranney’s, and one of our HVAC technicians will check for leaks and measure refrigerant levels.
Disconnected Drain Line
A disconnected drain line causes water to leak. This can happen due to poor installation, vibrations from the AC running, or damage to internal components. It is important to have the line inspected at least once a year to ensure it is securely connected. We recommend scheduling a maintenance session in the spring before you need the AC to manage the summer heat.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
In addition to having dirty filters or low refrigerant, other issues, such as blocked vents or dirty coils, can also cause your evaporator coil to freeze. When the ice melts, it may create a sudden surge of water that overwhelms the system’s ability to drain. All airflow issues can lead to the freezing of evaporator coils, so keep all vents open to prevent airflow restrictions with your AC.
High Humidity Levels
During humid days, your AC works harder to remove moisture from the air. If the amount of moisture in the air is too high, your system may not function as efficiently as it should. When this happens, the excess water might not drain fast enough, leading to temporary leaks.
If your AC is unable to manage high levels of humidity, make sure your unit is the proper size for your home. If you have questions about the size you need, contact us at Cranney’s for a consultation. If the unit is the right size and it is still unable to manage the humidity levels in the North Shore, we may recommend adding a dehumidifier to help reduce the moisture levels in your home.
Ignoring the Leak Causes More Issues
You can’t just ask, “Why is my AC leaking?” and let it go without consulting one of our technicians. While a small puddle may not seem serious, it can indicate an underlying issue that escalates quickly. Persistent leaking can cause significant water damage to your home, which may also lead to mold and mildew growth. Additionally, it can affect the efficiency of your air conditioning system.
Contact a Reliable HVAC Technician
If you notice persistent leaking, water pooling, or reduced cooling efficiency, it’s time to call a certified HVAC technician for AC repair. Prompt action can prevent water damage and extend the lifespan of your system. Whether your AC is leaking water because your drain line has a clog or because refrigerant levels are low, contact Cranney’s in Danvers, MA, today to schedule cooling system maintenance.
