Why is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?
There are a couple of things your air conditioner shouldn’t be doing and having your air conditioner leaking water is one of them.
If you’re experiencing this, turn your air conditioner off to avoid further damage to it or to your home. Then call AC Mechanical at 307-778-0515. Our professionals have you covered, with 24/7 emergency air conditioning repair in Cheyenne, WY, and surrounding areas.
The cooling process normally produces moisture as warm air moves over the evaporator coil. This moisture then collects in a drain pan and is removed via a condensate drain line. If you’re dealing with an air conditioner leaking water inside or an air conditioner leaking water outside, chances are the issue is tied to the pan or drain line.
Here are some of the top reasons why your air conditioner is leaking water. We’ll also review why it happens and how you can prevent it from happening again.
Water is Leaking Because the Condensate Pan is Full
There’s a safety feature in your condensate pan called a float switch. It stops water from spilling over if the pan isn’t draining like it should. If the switch stops working, water can overflow.
This pan is located below the evaporator coil in your furnace or air handler. If the pan is full and won’t drain, call AC Mechanical at 307-778-0515 for assistance, since we might need to replace the float switch.
Air Conditioner is Leaking Water Because the Condensate Pan is Rusty
Older air conditioners, especially ones that are more than 15 years old, can get holes in their condensate pans due to rust. If this happens, you’ll need to get a new pan. We also recommend planning for air conditioning installation because most air conditioners only last around 15–20 years with annual maintenance.
Water is Leaking Because the Condensate Drain Line is Clogged
Your condensate pan relies on a drain line to remove excess liquid. It’s common for this line to become clogged over time with mold or mildew. Water can then back up and leak as a result.
If you discover your condensate drain line is clogged, call AC Mechanical. Depending on how bad the clog is, our pros might use a wet vac, plumbing snake or special cleaner to eliminate the clog.
Water is Leaking Because Your Air Filter is Clogged
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and eventually freeze your air conditioner. When ice melts off of the evaporator coil, it can make the condensate pan overflow. It’s easy to avoid this problem. Just make sure to change your air filter every month if it’s flat. Or every three months if it’s pleated.
Not sure when you last changed your filter?
- Switch off your air conditioner at the thermostat.
- Remove the filter and hold it up to the light.
- If you can’t see light through it, replace it.
Water is Leaking Because Your Air Conditioner Has a Refrigerant Leak
Your air conditioner needs refrigerant to transfer heat out of your home and keep it cold. The evaporator coil can freeze when there’s not enough refrigerant. And, like the previous air filter issue, that melting frost can flood the condensate pan.
If you’re having trouble keeping your home cold and hearing hissing or bubbling sounds, your air conditioner could be leaking refrigerant. We may be able to repair it, but it depends on what type of refrigerant your air conditioner uses. If your air conditioner runs on R-22 or Freon, replacing it is your best bet. This is because R-22 is no longer being produced due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer.
How to Fix a Leaking Air Conditioner and Stop It from Happening in the Future
Most of the time, you’ll need an HVAC pro like one from AC Mechanical to repair your leaking air conditioner. If you’re behind on air conditioning maintenance, now is a good time to get back on track. This is because a lack of maintenance is one of the top causes of air conditioning breakdowns. Getting service done once a year before cooling season begins may help you avoid issues and could even make your air conditioner more efficient.
Whatever issues you’re having with your air conditioner, our pros are here to help you. Call us at 307-778-0515 to schedule your appointment now!
