Why Is My AC Dripping Water? Causes & Solutions
Leaking air conditioners are a common problem homeowners face, especially during the heat of summer when the system is working overtime to keep your home cool. Understanding the causes of an AC leak can help you prevent the problem or correct it quickly.
5 Common Causes of Your AC Dripping Water
There are several reasons your air conditioner may start leaking water and subsequently break down. These are the five most common:
A Clogged Condensate Line
The condensate drain line is used along with a condensate drain pan to remove excess moisture produced by your air conditioner as it cools your home. It’s not uncommon for dirt and debris to get trapped in the condensate drain line and cause a clog.
Mold and mildew can also grow, which can lead to a blocked condensate drain line. No matter the cause, a blocked condensate line can lead to an overflowing drain pan, which may cause water damage to your home and damage to your AC.
You can remove a clog in your condensate line with a wet/dry vac, or you can call a professional like those at Hopkins Air Conditioning. The best way to prevent these clogs is by scheduling professional air conditioning maintenance each spring.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Another cause could be frozen evaporator coils. Low refrigerant or dirt buildup can lead to ice buildup on your coils, which will then cause your AC to leak as the ice melts.
Scheduling an annual tune-up and inspection each spring is a great way to ensure your system has adequate refrigerant and doesn’t have excessive dirt or debris clogging the coils, which in turn will protect your system from frozen evaporator coils.
Leaking Refrigerant
If your air conditioner has a refrigerant leak, it can cause your coils to freeze, and then as the ice melts, your AC will leak. Other signs you have a refrigerant leak include excessive indoor humidity, warm air from your vents, or a hissing sound from your air conditioner.
At the first sign of a refrigerant leak, you should turn off your system and call a professional to inspect and repair your air conditioner.
Dirty Air Filter
When your air filters are dirty and clogged, they restrict airflow to the evaporator coils, which can cause them to freeze, leading to water leaks. It’s best to change your air filters frequently, usually every 30 to 60 days depending on your system and filter type.
The Drain Pan Is Rusted or Cracked
If your drain pan is damaged or showing signs of rust, it may not work properly and lead to water leaking into your home. The best way to prevent this is to replace your drain pan as soon as it appears cracked or otherwise compromised.
Schedule Professional AC Repairs With Hopkins Air Conditioning
Hopkins Air Conditioning is here for all your HVAC needs throughout Palm Beach County. We offer cooling services, including repairs, replacements, and maintenance. Our NATE-certified technicians offer service on all brands and provide same-day service.
When you choose Hopkins Air Conditioning, you can expect upfront pricing and free estimates on replacements.
Schedule HVAC services with the experts at Hopkins Air Conditioning. Call (561) 656-4870 to get started.
