There’s nothing worse than coming home on a sweltering Indiana summer day, only to find water pooling around your AC unit.
If you’ve noticed your air conditioner leaking, don’t ignore it! A leaking AC isn’t just a mess—it can signal a bigger problem that might lead to expensive repairs or even system failure. Let’s break down the most common causes of an AC leaking water and how to fix it before it causes major damage.
Common Causes of an AC Leaking Water
Your air conditioner removes humidity from the air as it cools your home. But when something goes wrong in the process, water that should be draining away properly can end up leaking inside your house. Here are the most common culprits:
1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line
Why it happens: Over time, dirt, mold, and debris can clog your AC’s drain line, preventing water from draining outside.
How to fix it: Try using a wet/dry vacuum to suck out the clog from the drain line. If that doesn’t work, call a professional to clear it and install a drain line cleanout to prevent future blockages.
2. Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coil
Why it happens: A dirty coil reduces airflow, causing the coil to freeze. When it eventually melts, it can overwhelm the drain pan, leading to leaks.
How to fix it: Check your air filter! A clogged filter can restrict airflow, leading to frozen coils. Replace your filter regularly and schedule professional coil cleaning to keep your system running efficiently.
3. Rusty or Cracked Drain Pan
Why it happens: Your AC’s drain pan collects condensation, but over time, it can rust or crack, allowing water to escape.
How to fix it: If the pan is damaged, it needs to be replaced. A professional HVAC technician can assess whether a simple drain pan replacement will solve the problem or if there’s an underlying issue causing excess moisture buildup.
4. Low Refrigerant Levels
Why it happens: Low refrigerant can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, and when it melts, water may overflow the drain pan.
How to fix it: If your AC isn’t cooling well and you hear hissing sounds, you may have a refrigerant leak. This requires a professional to locate and repair the leak, then recharge the refrigerant to proper levels.
5. Improper AC Installation
Why it happens: If your AC was installed incorrectly, it might not be level, causing water to pool in the wrong areas instead of draining properly.
How to fix it: Check if your unit is slightly tilted toward the drain line. If not, an HVAC pro can adjust the installation to ensure proper drainage.
How to Prevent Your AC from Leaking Water
Prevention is always better than repair. Follow these simple steps to keep your system running smoothly:
- Change your air filter every 1-3 months to maintain airflow and prevent frozen coils.
- Schedule annual AC maintenance with a professional to check the condensate drain line, coils, and refrigerant levels.
- Keep the area around your indoor unit clean to minimize dust buildup that could clog the drain.
- Install a float switch that automatically shuts off your AC if it detects a clog or water backup.
When to Call an HVAC Professional
If you’ve tried these fixes and your AC is still leaking, it’s time to call in the experts. At Hoosier Indoor Air, we provide fast, reliable AC repair services in Fishers, Indiana, McCordsville, Indiana, Noblesville, Indiana, and the surrounding areas. A leaking AC might seem like a minor nuisance, but it can lead to serious damage if left unchecked. Don’t wait—contact us today to keep your home cool and dry all summer long!
