Let’s be honest. Ohio summers can be hot! Phew! More than likely your AC has been working hard to combat the summer heat. Unfortunately, when your AC ramps up, it can start leaking water. We know this can be alarming, but Wilmington Heating & Cooling professionals are here to help you figure out what’s going on.
Potential Reasons Why Your AC May Be Leaking:
- Malfunctioning thermostat
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Clogged condensate drain
- Damaged or old condensate drain pan
- Low refrigerant levels
- Sweating condenser
1. Your AC Could Be Leaking Due to a Malfunctioning Thermostat
Your thermostat sets how cold the evaporator coils need to be to reach your desired home temperature. If too much water condenses on the coils, it can leak. So, if the thermostat fails, your AC will too.
Think of your thermostat as the central hub of your HVAC system. If it fails, the whole system does too. When a thermostat malfunctions, it can’t properly communicate with your HVAC system, telling your AC when to turn on and off and push out air. Many system issues stem from a faulty thermostat. Your air conditioner problems might just be due to a malfunctioning thermostat. Do this by ensuring the thermostat is responsive and allows for adjustments. If it is unresponsive, it may require new batteries or there could be a wiring issue, in which case it is advisable to contact a licensed technician.
2. Your AC Could Be Leaking Due a Frozen Evaporator Coil
An AC often leaks water because the evaporator coil freezes. This usually occurs when clogged air filters block airflow over the coils. The coils get so cold they freeze, leading to water dripping off.
You can fix this issue by:
- Air Filters: Regularly inspect your HVAC air filters. They should be replaced every 1 to 3 months, but it’s wise to double-check right now since your AC is currently acting up. A clogged air filter could cause your air conditioning issues, and a new filter might solve the problem!
- Thermostat: To stop the dripping or leaking, thaw the frozen evaporator coil first. Raise the thermostat temperature by a few degrees to help. If the whole unit is frozen, turn off the cooling and switch on the fan.
3. Your AC Could Be Leaking Due a Clogged Condensate Drain
Your condensate drain might be clogged. This pipe carries water from the drain pan to the outside. If it gets blocked, water can back up and leak outside the drain pan.
We don’t suggest fixing this issue yourself, as you could damage your pipes or system. A clogged condensate drain can lead to various AC problems, but a licensed technician can easily fix it.
4. Your AC Could Be Leaking Due an Old or Damaged Condensate Drain Pan
Now, let’s discuss the condensate drain pan. This pan collects water from the evaporator coil as it cools the air. If the drain pan is worn or damaged, it can lead to water leaking onto the floor.
Fixing this issue is simple. Replace the old or damaged drain pan with a new one according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re unsure how to do this, we’re here to help!
5. Your AC Could Be Leaking Due to Low Refrigerant Levels
When your air conditioner’s refrigerant levels drop, the internal pressure decreases, which can cause the evaporator coils to freeze. This can create a messy situation. Keep your eyes and ear peeled for:
- Hissing or bubbling sounds coming from the AC unit
- Ice on the evaporator coils
- The AC is not blowing out “cold” air
- Water leakage
For a quick fix, call a licensed technician. They have the right refrigerant and equipment to safely refill your air conditioner.
6. Your AC Could Be Leaking Due a “Sweating” Condenser
Did you know your air conditioner can “sweat?” This happens when warm or humid air contacts the cool exterior of the AC unit, causing condensation. This excess moisture can make it appear as if the unit is leaking.
While mild condensation shouldn’t raise too much concern, (it happens) an excessively “sweating” unit should be looked at by a professional as soon as possible. The last thing you want is water damage on your hands or even a damaged AC due to an issue that has been going on for some time.
Your safety and comfort are our priority. If your air conditioner is leaking water and you can’t figure out why, give us a call. We’re ready to provide you with our exceptional customer service.
You can beat the heat with the help of your Wilmington Heating & Cooling family! Call us today at (937) 764-3575, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
