The last thing you want to see during the months of July and August is a leaking air conditioner, but this is actually a common problem for many homeowners. As your AC unit cools, it also dehumidifies, which results in condensation dripping or pouring down into a condensate pan with an attached drain to carry this water out of your pan and either outside of your house or into an interior drain. Sometimes this process becomes disrupted, leading to unexpected leaks. Below you can learn what causes these AC leaks, how to prevent them, and what to do when your AC is leaking!
So What CAUSES AN AC TO LEAK?
There are many reasons why an AC unit may begin to leak.
A clogged condensate drain line. This is the most common reason for an AC water leak. Dirt, debris, mold, or dust can clog the drain line triggering water backup and if your system is not properly cleaned, this will result in water overflowing.
A dirty air filter. Dirt build up in and on your air filter doesn’t allow for proper airflow over the evaporator coil. This will cause your evaporator coil to freeze. When the coil begins to thaw and melt, the water can overflow the pan and leak out of the unit.
Refrigerant issues. When refrigerant gets low, it alters the pressure in the AC system, which can also cause the evaporator coils to freeze, then melt. Refrigerant leaks can be serious.
A broken or clogged condensate pump. AC units that rely on a condensate pump will leak if the pump isn’t moving water outside anymore.
A damaged drain pan. Older air conditioners may have drain pans that have rusted or become damaged, allowing water to filter through. Access to this pan is difficult in a lot of cases so to even see a primary pan but if you have had a clogged condensate drain previously, chances are greater that a pan has breached.
Virginia Air Heating & Cooling Can Make Sure You Have no leaks!
Don’t delay getting your AC system serviced when you observe leaks or other indicators that something may not be working correctly with your system. A non-functioning AC can be uncomfortable and dangerous for sensitive groups but also become very expensive to repair.
HOW TO AVOID AN AC ISSUE IN THE FUTURE
Prevention is the best way to avoid a future AC leak or problem. Annual air conditioning maintenance, tune-ups, and service are essential to keep your air conditioning ready to work for you at a moment’s notice. Spring is the optimum time to have your air conditioner serviced before it is needed in summer. Routine maintenance lowers your repair costs, reduces your energy bills, and extends your AC unit’s life span.
Simplify the process by enrolling in Virginia Air Heating & Cooling, Inc’s Home Comfort Club.