Why Your AC Unit is Leaking Water & What to Do About It

When the summer heat turns unbearably hot, you need your air conditioner to keep you cool. But what happens when your trusty AC starts leaking water? When working correctly, your air conditioner shouldn't be leaking, so this is a definite sign that something has gone wrong. In this blog post, our HVAC experts will cover the various reasons why your AC might be leaking water and provide steps to address the issue.

Common Causes of a Leaking AC

Dirty Air Filter

One of the most common culprits of a leaking AC is a dirty air filter. When the air filter becomes blocked with dust, dirt, and debris, it restricts the airflow, causing the evaporator coil to freeze. As the ice melts, it can overwhelm the drain pan and lead to water leakage. To address this issue, replace or clean your air filters regularly.

Clogged Condensate Drain Line

Your AC's condensate drain line is responsible for carrying away the moisture that is extracted from the air. Over time, this drain line can become clogged with mold, dirt, and other debris. When this happens, the water can't escape, which can cause leaks. To stop the leaks, the drain line needs to be unclogged. It's best to call in a professional technician, like the ones at Campbell & Company, to complete this step.

Improper Installation or Insulation

If your AC unit was not properly installed or lacks proper insulation, it can result in condensation forming where it shouldn't. Ensure that your AC unit is properly positioned and sealed to prevent excess moisture buildup. If you suspect improper installation, it's best to consult a professional technician to address the issue.

Refrigerant Issues

Low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coil to become too cold, leading to ice formation on your unit. This ice may eventually melt, which would be the cause of your AC leaking. Refrigerant issues require the work of a trained HVAC technician who can identify leaks, repair them, and recharge the system with the appropriate refrigerant.

How to Prevent Your AC From Leaking

Addressing an AC leak quickly is important to prevent the issue from worsening or damaging other parts of your unit. However, it's even better to be able to prevent leaks rather than having to address them. One of the best ways you can protect against AC leaks is by scheduling regular maintenance for your AC system to ensure that it's running efficiently. A professional technician can clean components, check refrigerant levels, and identify potential issues before they lead to leaks.

Choose Campbell & Company for AC Services

A leaking AC can be a hassle for homeowners, but Campbell & Company is here to help. If the recommendations we covered in this blog don't help resolve the issue, then turn to our team for repairs. Our highly trained technicians will inspect your air conditioner thoroughly to determine what's causing the leak and then apply the appropriate solution. We also provide top-quality maintenance services to keep your AC running in peak condition.

Call Campbell & Company today at 509-545-9848 to schedule air conditioning services in Yakima, the Tri-Cities, or surrounding areas.