Noticing water dripping from your AC unit can make any homeowner nervous. After all, who wants a puddle of water inside their home? Even though your AC unit removes moisture from the air, water leaks are not normal, and a leak can be a sign of a serious problem. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent an AC leak from causing further damage to your unit. By being proactive and contacting the right HVAC professional, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your AC unit continues to cool effectively and efficiently.
Where Is the Leak Coming From?
First, it’s important to identify where the leak is originating. Leaks can come from various parts of the AC unit, including the refrigerant lines, the condenser unit, or the drain pan. Each of these parts requires a different approach to repairing a leak.
Common Causes of AC Leaks
Refrigerant Lines
Refrigerant lines are a common source of leaks. Refrigerant is necessary for the cooling process, and any leakage can result in reduced efficiency and higher energy bills. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, the first step is to turn off the AC unit to prevent additional damage. After this, check the refrigerant lines for signs of punctures, corrosion, or wear and tear. Most lines are insulated, so you will probably need to hire a professional to properly remove and inspect the insulation. If you suspect a leak, a professional with experience handling refrigerants can use specialized equipment and knowledge to fix the problem.
Drain Pan
A cracked or clogged drain pan can also cause leaks. The drain pan is responsible for collecting condensation from the evaporator coil, directing it to the drain line. Over time, the drain pan can crack or debris can clog the line, causing water to overflow. To inspect the drain pan, you must turn off the unit and find the pan under the evaporator coil. If you notice water pooling around the pan or any signs of corrosion or rust, it’s likely the source of the leak. If the pan is cracked, it will need to be replaced by a professional. An HVAC technician can also clean the pan and drain line for you.
Condenser Unit
The condenser unit, which is usually located outside, can also be the source of leaks. The condenser unit contains the compressor and coil, both of which are important to the cooling process. Examine the area around the condenser unit for pooled water or signs of a refrigerant leak. Make sure the drainage area is clear of any debris so that water can properly run off. If a leak persists, you should call an HVAC professional.
Air Filters
Dirty air filters can cause your evaporator coils to accumulate ice, which can cause your AC to leak water. Air filters ensure air circulates properly. They can also trap pollutants and help clean air enter your home. However, when debris and dust build up within the filters and clog them, the blockage can harm your indoor air quality and result in more harm to your unit. Clogged air filters can also prevent warm air from passing through easily. This can result in your unit’s refrigerant not absorbing heat, which can cause the evaporator coils to freeze.
Other Potential Causes
In addition to the reasons above, there are many other potential causes of water leaks inside your AC unit. Although units can last a long time with proper maintenance, rust can accumulate and damage your drain pan until it starts to leak. If your AC has been in service for more than 15 years, you may need to replace the entire unit. If your AC unit is in your basement, the condensate pump, which transfers the condensation from your basement to the outside of your home could be the problem. If it’s broken and your unit can’t effectively get rid of condensation, it will need to be replaced immediately. Water accumulation in your basement can result in costly water damage.
Preventing AC Leaks
Once the source of the leak is identified, the issue must be addressed promptly to prevent additional damage. If you ignore an AC leak, more serious issues can develop, including mold growth, structural damage to your home, and higher repair costs in the future. Routine maintenance and inspections can help prevent leaks from developing in the first place.
Preventative maintenance involves replacing air filters, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting the drain pan and lines, and making sure the condenser unit is free of debris. Changing your air filters regularly can stop the buildup of dirt and dust that can cause leaks and clog your system. Checking refrigerant levels ensures your system is running efficiently and prevents the compressor from overworking, which can cause leaks. Inspecting your drain pan and lines can make sure your unit has proper drainage and airflow.
Using your AC unit properly can also prevent leaks. Be mindful to not set your thermostat too low – this can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, which will lead to water leakage when the ice melts. A programmable thermostat can help you maintain a consistent temperature in your home and reduce strain on your AC system.
When to Call a Professional
Some homeowners are comfortable with DIY repairs, which can address minor issues like unclogging the drain line or cleaning the drain pan. However, for more extensive problems like condenser unit damage or refrigerant leaks, you should seek professional assistance. HVAC technicians have the necessary tools and training to diagnose and repair such issues effectively and safely.
Some AC leaks may be covered under your unit’s warranty. Before contacting a professional, you may want to examine your warranty to see if you are eligible for discounted or free service. If you have an older unit that is no longer under warranty, an HVAC professional may recommend you replace it with a newer, more efficient model.
Can You Still Use a Leaking AC Unit?
The short answer is yes, your air conditioning unit can work when it is leaking water. However, you may notice it’s no longer able to cool down your home effectively. If you don’t know the cause of the leak, it’s best to turn off your AC as soon as you notice water dripping from it. In some cases, damage to the internal components of your unit can be severe, and if you keep running it, it can result in compressor failure. An indoor AC unit leaking water can also damage your walls, furniture, ceiling, and other household items.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you notice your AC unit leaking water, it’s important to act immediately. Failing to do so can result in additional damage to your unit. At Kulacz & Sons Heating & Cooling, Inc., we offer a variety of cooling, heating, and HVAC maintenance solutions to the Peotone, IL area. Our HVAC professionals specialize in both AC repairs and installation, and we are sure we can identify the source of your AC’s leak and repair it. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
