If you’ve noticed water pooling around your air conditioner, it could be a sign of an issue that needs attention. An air conditioner leaking water inside can cause damage to floors, walls, and ceilings, and may indicate a larger problem with your HVAC system. Below, we’ll discuss the most common reasons why your AC unit is leaking water inside your home and how to fix it.
Common Causes of an Air Conditioner Leaking Water Indoors
- Clogged Condensate Drain Line
The most common reason for an AC leaking water inside is a clogged condensate drain line. Over time, dirt, dust, and mold can accumulate in the drain line, preventing proper water drainage and causing leaks.
Solution: Try using a wet/dry vacuum to clear the clog or pour a mixture of vinegar and warm water into the drain line to break up debris. If the issue persists, call an HVAC technician for professional cleaning.
- Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coil
A dirty air filter or restricted airflow can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. When the ice melts, excess water may overflow from the drain pan, leading to leaks.
Solution:
- Check and replace the air filter every 1-3 months.
- Schedule regular AC maintenance to prevent coil freezing.
- Damaged or Rusted Drain Pan
If your drip pan is cracked, rusted, or misaligned, it won’t properly collect condensation from the evaporator coil, leading to leaks inside your home.
Solution: Inspect the drain pan for damage and replace it if necessary.
- Low Refrigerant Levels
If your AC is low on refrigerant, it can cause the evaporator coil to freeze up, leading to excess water when it thaws.
Solution: If you notice hissing sounds, weak cooling, or higher energy bills, you may have a refrigerant leak. Contact a professional HVAC technician to check and recharge your system.
- Improper AC Installation
An incorrectly installed air conditioner (especially a new unit) can cause drainage issues, leading to water leaking inside.
Solution: If your AC has been leaking since installation, have an HVAC professional inspect it to ensure it’s level and properly set up.
- Excessive Humidity in the Home
In areas with high humidity, an AC unit may produce more condensation than usual, potentially overwhelming the drain pan.
Solution: Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels and check the AC’s drain system for blockages.
- Do You Have a Heat Pump or an Air Conditioner?
If you have a heat pump and notice water near your outdoor unit, this could be completely normal. During the defrost cycle, heat pumps melt ice buildup, and the resulting water drains outside.
However, if you see water inside the house near the indoor unit, it could indicate a clogged drain line, frozen coil, or another HVAC issue.
Solution: Identify whether you have a heat pump or a traditional air conditioner, and check whether the leak is inside the home or near the outdoor condenser. If the water is pooling inside, it’s time to call an HVAC professional.
How to Prevent AC Water Leaks in the Future
- Change air filters regularly.
- Schedule annual AC maintenance.
- Keep the condensate drain line clear.
- Ensure your AC unit is properly installed.
- Monitor refrigerant levels.
When to Call an HVAC Professional
If your AC continues to leak water inside, don’t wait! Water damage can lead to mold growth and costly repairs. Contact Galaxy Heating & Cooling, the San Francisco Bay Area’s trusted HVAC experts, for fast and professional air conditioning repair and maintenance.
By understanding and addressing these common causes, you can prevent water damage and keep your AC running efficiently. If your air conditioner is leaking water inside, contact a professional HVAC technician to fix the issue before it worsens!