Air Conditioner Leak

An Air Conditioner leak can be caused by many things. Water leaks from your air conditioner can cause significant damage to your floors, ceiling, furnishings, and more. Unchecked, it can lead to mold issues as well.

An Air Conditioner leak can be simple slow drips which accumulate or pouring water. Either are signs that your air conditioner leaks and needs attention.

Drainpipe Becomes Clogged

It is normal for your air conditioning system to produce water. Water is normally produced through condensation as your air is cooled and humidity collects. Normally this condensation is drained through a pipe to your drain pan and then to the outside.

Sometimes dirt and debris can collect and then clog up your drainpipe. When this happens, the water will become backed up and overflow. The drainpipe will need to be flushed. Sometimes you can do this with a shop vac or your HVAC specialist can do this for you.

Make sure to change your Air Filters at least every three months or every month if you have pets or high traffic. This will prevent some of the debris from reaching your drainage line. A dirty air filter can decrease airflow, allow debris to pass and cause an air conditioner leak.

Condensation Pump is Not Working

Condensation pumps are used to mechanically expedite the flow of condensation water from your system to the drainage pipes. The pump can become clogged or damaged and will not facilitate the drainage as it is meant to do. Again leading to an air conditioner leak. Excessive moisture can lead to mold growth so this needs to be looked at by your HVAC Specialist before water damage occurs.

Condensation Drain Pan

Another cause of an air conditioner leak can be the drain pan. The drain pan sits underneath the unit and collects excess drainage. It can overflow if the drainpipes become clogged. It can also leak if there is a crack or joint split.

Your HVAC Specialist will be able to determine if it is a condensate pump, clogged pipes or some other drainage issue.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

A frozen evaporator coil can lead to an air conditioner leak as well. There are several things that can cause your evaporator coil to freeze up:

• Obstructed or Insufficient Air Flow
• Refrigerant Leak (low refrigerant)
• Coil is dirty
• Air Filter is Dirty

If you find the evaporator coil is frozen, you should turn off your system so it can defrost. It will need to be fully defrosted before a technician can determine the problem. This will need to be seen by a licensed HVAC technician to determine if there is a refrigerant leak or what is causing the freezing.

Conclusion

To help prevent an air conditioner leak, make sure you always have:

• Adequate airflow to your HVAC equipment.
• Change your air filters regularly.
• Periodically check your drain pan and your indoor air conditioning unit to detect issues before a system floods.

Your Air Doctor Heating and Air Specialists are here to help you with any Air Conditioning leaks or any of your HVAC needs. Now licensed in Md, WV, and VA!