The Most Common Causes of Indoor AC Unit Leaking Water

Indoor air conditioning units are crucial in maintaining our comfort during hot summers. However, they are not immune to breakdowns, and one common problem is leakages. Water dripping from your indoor AC could cause costly damages and even be hazardous to your health. Whether it’s a small leak or a significant one, they all have to be addressed before they turn into severe problems. In this blog post, we will explore the most common causes of indoor AC unit leaking water and how to fix them.

Clogged condensate drain line

The most popular reason for indoor AC unit leaks is a clogged condensate drain line. With time, dirt, dust, and other debris accumulate within this drain line and obstructs water from flowing out. Once the water has nowhere to go, it begins to flow back into the indoor unit and causes damage. One way to tell if your condensate drain line is clogged is by checking if there is water pooled around your AC unit. To fix it, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out debris or use a pipe cleaner to get rid of the clog.

Dirty coil

Another significant cause of leaks is a dirty coil. When there is too much dirt on the coil of an AC unit, the ice will begin to form, and when it melts, the excess water will start to leak. Regular maintenance of AC units through cleaning of the coil helps to prevent leaks. If you already have a dirty coil, turn off the AC unit and clean the coil using a commercial coil cleaner. After cleaning, it’s essential to dry the coil properly to prevent any further damage.

Low refrigerant levels

Low refrigerant levels also cause indoor AC units to leak water. Refrigerants help cool the air within the AC unit by absorbing the heat. When there isn’t enough refrigerant, the coils are unable to cool the air leading to the formation of cold water. The water will start to build up within the unit leading to leaks. If you suspect that low refrigerant levels are causing the leakages, contact a certified HVAC technician to assess the situation and add refrigerant to your system.

Damaged or cracked drain pan

The drain pan collects the water that drains from the indoor AC unit. However, over time, it can become cracked, leading to water leaks. A visual inspection can tell you if your drain pan is cracked, and you can also listen for water droplets hitting the pan. You can fix small cracks using epoxy, but larger ones need replacement by a professional.

Malfunctioning condensate pump

Lastly, your indoor AC unit could be leaking because of a malfunctioning condensate pump. The pump’s primary function is to pump water from the drain pan to the condensate drain line. When it fails, it causes water to back up within the indoor AC unit and cause leaks. You can test if your pump is working by pouring water into the pan, and if the pump doesn’t activate, it’s time to replace it.

Indoor AC unit leaking water can be damaging and cause harm to your health, and it’s essential to identify and fix the root cause of the problem. While it’s crucial to know the most common causes, regular maintenance checks are crucial in preventing leaks. Once you identify the source of the problem, you can choose to fix it yourself or seek the help of a professional. Remember always to turn off the unit before starting any repairs to avoid electrocution.