Why is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water? What To Do

If you’ve noticed water leaking from your air conditioner, it can be a worrying sight. While it might seem like a serious issue, water leakage is a fairly common problem for many air conditioning units.

It’s usually a sign that something’s not working quite right, but the good news is that most causes are fixable. From clogged drain lines to dirty filters, there are a variety of reasons why your AC may be leaking. Ignoring the problem could lead to bigger issues, like water damage or costly repairs.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most common causes of air conditioner leaks and walk you through simple steps to fix the issue. Plus, we’ll tell you when it’s time to call a professional heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technician for help.

Common Causes of AC Water Leaks

If your air conditioner is leaking water, there could be several reasons behind it. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Clogged drain line: Over time, dirt, debris and algae can build up in your air conditioner’s drain line, causing it to become blocked. When this happens, the water has nowhere to go and can leak from the unit.
• Dirty air filters: When your air filters are clogged with dust and dirt, the airflow is restricted. This can cause the evaporator coils to freeze. Once the coils thaw, the excess water can overflow and lead to leaks.
• Low refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant levels can also cause the evaporator coils to freeze. Just like with dirty air filters, once the ice melts, it can result in water dripping from the unit. Only a qualified HVAC professional can deal with refrigerants.
• Damaged drain pan: The drain pan is responsible for catching condensation. If it’s cracked or rusted, the water can leak before it’s properly drained away.
• Improper installation: If your air conditioner wasn’t installed correctly, it might not be draining water properly. A poorly installed unit can lead to misaligned drainage systems, causing leakage.

These issues can apply to all types of air conditioners, from split system ACs and ducted systems to evaporative coolers. Identifying the cause is the first step in fixing the problem and preventing further damage.

Immediate Steps to Take When Your AC Leaks Water

If your air conditioner is leaking water, it’s important to act quickly to prevent damage to your home and the unit itself. Here are some immediate steps you can take:

• Turn off the air conditioner: The first thing to do is switch off your AC to avoid further leakage or damage. This will also give the unit a chance to defrost if the coils are frozen.
• Check the air filters: Dirty filters can block airflow and cause the evaporator coils to freeze. Check if your filters are clogged and clean or replace them if necessary.
• Inspect the drain line: A clogged drain line is a common cause of leaks. Use a wet/dry vacuum to try and clear any blockages, or if you’re unsure how, call a professional to clean it.
• Look for ice build up: If you notice ice on the coils, turn off the unit and let it thaw. Once melted, check if the unit still leaks. Ice buildup could indicate a bigger issue like low refrigerant.
• Check the drain pan: If the drain pan is cracked or overflowing, that could be the cause of the leak. You may need to replace it if it’s damaged.

These quick actions can help minimise damage while you figure out the cause.

When to Call a Professional

While some air conditioner leaks can be fixed with a bit of DIY, there are times when calling in a professional HVAC technician is the smartest move. If you’ve already checked the obvious culprits − like a clogged drain line or dirty air filters − but the problem persists, it’s a sign that something more serious could be wrong.

For example, low refrigerant levels or a broken condensate pump require specific tools and expertise to fix. Refrigerant issues, in particular, can lead to bigger problems if left unaddressed, like frozen coils or a complete system breakdown. These problems can only be fixed by a trained HVAC technician.

Also, if you notice mould, strange noises, or a significant water buildup around your unit, it’s time to get expert help. Professionals can diagnose the root cause quickly, prevent further damage, and often save you money in the long run by avoiding larger repairs.

Plus, a professional service call can include a full system checkup, ensuring your AC runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the hottest months. Don’t hesitate to contact a technician when the problem feels beyond your comfort zone.

How to Prevent Future Leaks

Preventing water leaks in your air conditioner is much easier than dealing with the mess and hassle after they happen. With a few simple maintenance steps, you can keep your AC running smoothly and avoid future issues. Here’s how:

• Regularly clean or replace air filters: One of the easiest ways to prevent leaks is by keeping your air filters clean. Clogged filters can lead to frozen coils, which can cause water to leak. Check your filters every 1-2 months and clean or replace them as needed.
• Clear the drain line: Over time, the drain line can get clogged with dirt, debris, or algae. Cleaning it out regularly with a wet/dry vacuum or a mixture of vinegar and water can prevent blockages that cause leaks.
• Check the drain pan: Inspect the drain pan for any signs of cracks or rust. A damaged drain pan won’t properly collect and drain condensation, so replacing it before it gets worse can stop leaks in their tracks.
• Schedule professional maintenance: Regular tune-ups by a professional technician will help catch potential problems early, including refrigerant issues or faulty parts that could lead to leaks.

Taking these preventive measures will keep your air conditioner working efficiently and reduce the chances of dealing with water leaks in the future.

Never Ignore the Drip

While seeing water leak from your air conditioner can be concerning, it’s often a sign of a fixable issue. From clogged drain lines to dirty air filters, there are several common causes that you can easily check yourself.

By acting quickly and taking a few simple steps, you can prevent further damage and get your AC back to working properly. However, if the problem persists or if you’re unsure about tackling the repairs, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

Regular maintenance is also key to avoiding future leaks and keeping your unit running efficiently. With the right care, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home without the hassle of water leaks from your AC.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.