You might expect to see water leaking from your water heater at some point. It’s something you want to see, but you can easily understand why a malfunction with a water heater can lead to water leaks.
But what about water leaking from an AC? Air conditioners don’t use water to cool the air, so where is this water coming from? And is this a problem that will require you to call for AC repair in Panama City, FL?
We’re AC experts with experience dealing with all types of HVAC issues, so we can give you a breakdown on the reasons a AC might leak water and why you’ll usually need to have professionals handle repairs.
Why There’s Water in Your AC in the First Place
Air conditioners work by extracting heat from the air inside your home and expelling it outside. During this process, they also remove moisture from the air. This isn’t specifically to lower humidity levels: it’s a side-effect of evaporating cold refrigerant to draw heat out of the air. This moisture collects on the evaporator coil and drips into a condensate pan. From there, it drains away through a condensate drain line. If problems occur with the drainage system, it can lead to leaking.
Common Causes of AC Water Leaks
- Clogged Condensate Drain Line: Over time, algae, mold, and debris can accumulate in the condensate drain line, causing a blockage. When the water can’t drain away properly, it backs up and overflows, leading to a leak.
- Damaged or Rusty Condensate Pan: If the condensate pan is cracked or corroded, it won’t hold water as it should, allowing water to spill out and cause a leak.
- Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter restricts airflow over the evaporator coil, causing the coil to freeze. When the ice melts, it can overwhelm the condensate pan and lead to leaks.
- Improper Installation: An incorrectly installed AC unit may not be level, causing water to spill out of the condensate pan instead of draining away properly.
- Low Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant can lower the pressure in your AC system, causing the evaporator coil to freeze. When the ice melts, it can cause the same issue as a dirty air filter—overflowing water.
Is It Time to Call for AC Repair?
While some minor issues like a temporarily clogged drain line might be resolved with a bit of DIY maintenance, most causes of AC water leaks require professional attention. Ignoring these issues can lead to more serious damage, not just to your AC unit but also to your home. Water damage can ruin floors, walls, and ceilings, leading to expensive repairs.
Professional HVAC technicians have the tools and expertise to accurately diagnose the problem, perform necessary repairs, and ensure your AC is running efficiently. They can clean and unclog drain lines, replace damaged components, and check for underlying issues like low refrigerant levels or improper installation.
Don’t let a minor leak turn into a major headache. Contact Parker Services, Inc when you need AC repairs. Comfort’s just a call away!
Contact Parker Services, Inc when you need AC repairs. Comfort’s just a call away!