Why Your AC Is Leaking Water
Your AC creates water as it cools, and drainage problems can make it leak. Learn where the water comes from, common causes of leaks and when to call for repair.
You probably know that water leaking from your water heater is a problem. But what about water leaking from your air conditioner?
"Wait, my AC doesn't run on water," you might think. "Why would water leak from the cabinet?"
You are correct that your air conditioner does not use water to cool the air. (Evaporative coolers do use water, but they are uncommon in New Jersey homes.) However, your AC does create water as part of how it operates, and problems with the system can lead to water leaking from the cabinet. Whatever the specific cause, a leaking AC is a good reason to call for air conditioning repair.
Where Water in the AC Comes From
If you listen to your air conditioning system while it runs, you may occasionally hear dripping. This is a normal part of how the air conditioner operates.
The indoor evaporator coil is where the AC draws heat from the air. It does this as cold refrigerant evaporates inside the coil. The cold coil also causes moisture in the air to condense on its surface, much like droplets form on the outside of a glass of iced tea. That water has to go somewhere.
As the water drips off the coil, it falls into a shallow pan beneath the evaporator coil assembly, called the condensate pan. From there it flows through a drain line to a floor drain or to the outside of the house. In some homes, a small condensate pump moves the water to the drain.
Troubles With the Condensate Drainage System
When you notice water leaking from the indoor AC cabinet, the cause is usually a problem with the drainage system. Several problems can keep water from draining properly:
• A clogged condensate drain line, often from algae, dirt or debris
• A cracked, rusted or damaged condensate pan
• A failed condensate pump
• A drain line that has come loose or disconnected
• A frozen evaporator coil that drips heavily as it thaws
In some cases, water rising in the pan will trip a float or safety switch that shuts the AC off. If your air conditioner suddenly stops working and your thermostat display goes blank, a tripped safety switch from a full pan may be the reason.
A leaking AC should be repaired by a professional. Condensate water left to pool inside the system can lead to mold growth and corrosion, and it can also raise the humidity inside your home. Call us and we will find out what is wrong and explain how to fix it.
AC Leak Repair in Burlington County
Gibson Home Services repairs all major brands of air conditioners for homeowners in Cherry Hill, Delran, Moorestown and across Burlington County. Regular maintenance through our Comfort Club is a good way to have your system checked on a schedule.
Call (856) 220-4158 or request service online to schedule a visit with Gibson Home Services.
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