What To Do When Your AC Is Leaking Water

When your AC is leaking water it is best to address the situation immediately. Waiting around can cause the issue to get worse and that will only do more damage as well as make things more expensive. It is best to have your AC tuned up twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, to get the best out of it and prevent leaks from happening. The good news about a leak is that it’s fairly simple to fix.

There are only a few things that cause an AC unit to leak water and one of the most common is a clogged air filter. When your air filter is dirty it won’t allow for air to pass through easily which can cause the coils to freeze up. The good news is that this is an easy fix and even easier to maintain. If this is the issue just simply replace the air filter. Air filters should be changed out every 30-60 days especially in the summer months when the AC is working its hardest. Mark it on your calendar to remember so you won’t run into this issue.

The drain pan is located under the indoor air handler and is there to catch the condensation off your AC unit. When this drain pan is overflowing or has a crack in it you will notice water that is similar to a leak. There are different ways you can fix this issue. The first way is to replace the drain pan altogether. In some cases, you can temporarily fix the drain pan with a water sealant but it is best to replace the drain pan outright.

Another reason you may notice your AC leaking is simple a clogged drain line. This is generally a quick and easy fix and is caused by fungi, algae, and debris in the line. Keeping your drain line clean and clear is actually a good thing to include in your regular maintenance. The best way to fix this yourself is to pour white vinegar down this drain pipe every couple of months to keep it clear of algae and fungi.

If your AC isn’t cooling well it could mean your refrigerant is leaking. When this is low it can look like the same symptoms as a dirty air filter causing the system to freeze and melt. This is one of the most serious issues that will cause a leak. In most cases it can be fixed but if it is too far gone the unit may have to be replaced entirely.

The great thing about AC leaks is that more often than not they are simple fixes that won’t break the bank. It is important to fix a leak as soon as it becomes known because what starts as a small leak could lead to potential damage to areas like floors and ceilings. A lot of leak issues can be solved on your own at home but there are times it is necessary to call a professional to ensure that everything is fixed and the leak is taken care of.