Understanding the Cause of AC Leaks

Understanding why your AC is leaking is crucial to fixing it. Finding the reason is the first step to fixing this issue.

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line: The most common reason for an AC leaking water is a clogged condensate drain line. AC units collect moisture from the air, which this line removes. When clogged with dirt, mold, or debris, water can flood your home.
2. Dirty Air Filter: Airflow restriction from a filthy air filter might freeze the evaporator coil. When the coil melts, water might overflow the condensate drain pan, causing leaks.
3. Poor Installation: An improperly installed AC unit may be unlevel. An unbalanced unit might pool and leak water inside your property.
4. Low Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels might cause the evaporator coil to freeze due to AC system pressure drops. The coil can leak water when it thaws, like a filthy air filter.
5. Damaged or Rusty Drain Pan: Over time, a damaged or rusty drain pan can leak because it fails to collect and direct water.

Steps to Fix an AC Dripping Water Inside the House

Now that we know the common reasons for AC water leaks, let’s remedy them step by step. Turn off the AC unit before making repairs for safety.

Clear the Clogged Condensate Drain Line

AC leaks most often result from clogged condensate drain lines. How to clear it:

1. Locate the Drain Line: The condensate drain line is commonly a PVC pipe near the AC system’s outside unit.
2. Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum: A wet/dry vacuum can be attached to the drain line and sealed with duct tape or a cloth. Run the vacuum for a few minutes to unclog.
3. Flush with Vinegar: After vacuuming, flush the drain line with equal parts vinegar and water to eliminate debris and prevent future clogs.
4. Check for Flow: Water should flow freely through the drain line when you pour water into the drain pan. If so, the clog is gone.

Replace or Clean the Air Filter

A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow through the air conditioner, causing the evaporator coil to freeze up and eventually thaw, leading to water leakage. Check your air filter and clean or replace it if necessary. This simple step can often resolve the issue of an aircon dripping water. The evaporator coil can freeze and leak water if the air filter is unclean. How to fix this:

1. Air Filter: The air filter is usually near the return air duct or inside the air handler.
2. Inspect the Filter: Remove the filter and check for dirt and debris. If it’s unclean, clean or replace it.
3. Clean or Replace: Reusable filters should be washed with mild soap and water and dried before reinstallation. Disposable filters should be replaced with the same size and type.
4. Regular Maintenance: Check and replace or clean your air filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations, to prevent leaks.

Ensure Proper Installation and Leveling

An unbalanced AC unit can leak water into your home due to improper installation. How to check and fix installation:

1. Check the Unit: Level your AC unit to ensure even installation. To drain properly, angle the device toward the drain line.
2. Adjust as Needed: If the unit isn’t level, adjust it. This may require repositioning or shims to level the device.
3. Professional Help: If you’re unsure about making these adjustments, get a professional to evaluate and fix the installation.

Check and Refill Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels can freeze the evaporator coil and ac drops water. You can:

1. Check for Ice: Check the evaporator coil for ice. Ice indicates low refrigerant.
2. Call a Professional: It takes expertise to handle refrigerants. Consult a certified HVAC expert to check and refill your AC refrigerant.
3. Regular Maintenance: Have a professional maintain your refrigerant levels to prevent leaks.

Repair or Replace the Drain Pan

A rusty drain pan might leak by not collecting and directing water. How to fix this:

1. Inspect the Drain Pan: The drain pan under the evaporator coil should be checked for cracks, holes, and rust.
2. Temporary Fix: Small cracks or holes can be temporarily repaired with a waterproof sealer.
3. Replace the Pan: Replace the drain pan for major damage. Consult a specialist to install the right pan size and type.

Inspection: Check the drain pan for damage and fix it right away to prevent leaks.