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We rely heavily on air conditioning in Texas to keep us cool and comfortable during those brutal summer months. But what happens when you spot water pooling around your unit or notice damp spots near the AC? A leaking AC unit is a common issue that many homeowners face, and it can be frustrating – not to mention it might indicate a bigger problem with your system.
In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the most common reasons for an AC leaking, what you can do to fix it, and when it’s time to call a professional. Let’s dive in!
Air conditioners work by removing humidity from the air, and that process naturally creates some condensation. Usually, the water generated is drained away without any fuss, but if something goes wrong, you might leak. Here are the main culprits behind AC leaks:
The condensate drain line is responsible for directing water (that’s pulled from the air) out of your unit. Over time, this line can get clogged with dust, mold, or algae – especially in humid climates like Texas. When the line is blocked, water has nowhere to go and starts to back up, eventually spilling around the unit.
How to fix it:
If you’re comfortable with DIY maintenance, you can try unclogging the line yourself. Locate the drain line (usually a PVC pipe) and use a wet/dry vacuum to clear the blockage. Pouring vinegar down the line every few months can also help prevent buildup. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable doing this, call an HVAC pro.
A dirty air filter restricts airflow across the evaporator coil, which can cause it to freeze up. When that coil thaws, the excess water might overwhelm the drain pan, leading to a leak. It sounds simple, but neglecting to change the air filter is a significant cause of AC issues.
How to fix it:
Changing your air filter regularly – about every 3 months, depending on usage – can prevent this problem. This reduces the chance of leaks and helps your AC run more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.
If your AC is low on refrigerant, the evaporator coil can get too cold and freeze up. When it eventually melts, it creates excessive water that might leak out of the system. Low refrigerant could also indicate a leak in the refrigerant lines, which is a more significant issue.
How to fix it:
A certified HVAC technician should always handle refrigerant issues. If your AC isn’t cooling as well as it should, or if you hear a hissing sound (which could be refrigerant escaping), it’s time to call a professional. They can check the levels, find leaks, and top up the refrigerant.
The drain pan sits beneath the evaporator coil and collects condensation before being directed through the drain line. Over time, drain pans can rust, crack, or even become misaligned, allowing water to escape instead of draining out.
How to fix it:
A damaged drain pan needs to be replaced. This isn’t a costly fix but requires some technical skill. If your AC unit is older, replacing the pan might be part of a more extensive repair or maintenance check that could save you headaches.
If your AC unit wasn’t installed correctly or isn’t level, it could cause water to pool instead of flowing through the drain line. This is especially common in older homes or if the unit has been moved.
How to fix it:
Fixing installation issues can be tricky without professional help. An HVAC technician can assess whether the unit needs to be adjusted or re-leveled to ensure proper drainage.
Some AC leaks are minor and can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, but others indicate more significant issues requiring a professional’s touch. Here’s when you should consider calling an HVAC expert:
A trained HVAC technician can diagnose the issue, make the necessary repairs, and ensure your AC runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely.
As with many things in life, prevention is better than cure! Here are a few tips to keep your AC from leaking in the future:
Pour a Little Vinegar Down the Drain Line: Every few months, pour a cup of white vinegar down the drain line to help break down any mold or algae that might cause clogs.
A leaking AC unit can be an annoyance, but it’s often a sign that something needs attention in your system. Knowing what to look for and promptly addressing minor issues can save you from more extensive, expensive repairs. And remember, if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a professional HVAC company.
As an HVAC technician with 12+ years of experience, I can tell you that sometimes the best solution is getting an expert’s hands on the job to ensure it’s done right.