Water dripping out of an AC unit can ruin your flooring, promote mold growth, and cause important structural elements to rot. Fortunately, most problems that cause water leakage are relatively easy to resolve if you know where to look. The following guide explains a few of the most common reasons your AC system might be leaking water.

Why Is Your AC Unit Leaking?

1. Faulty Drain Pan

As your AC unit draws heat from inside your home, moisture in the air collects on the equipment, just like condensation on cold glass. This moisture should drip down and collect in a drain pan situated underneath the unit.

Drain pans are made of corrosion-resistant metal, but they can rust over time. They might also get damaged, causing deformities that allow water to leak out. However, having a professional replace the drain pan is a fairly inexpensive repair that can immediately stop the leak.

2. Clogged Condensate Line

The condensate line is a tube connected to the pan, allowing water to drain safely outside the house. Unfortunately, over time, algae and mold can grow inside the line, leaving the water in the pan with nowhere to go but over the sides. To keep the condensate line clear, pour a few teaspoons of vinegar into the line once a month. If the line is already clogged, you may need an AC repair technician to remove the obstruction and get the water flowing again.

3. Frozen Evaporator Coils

Restricted airflow, usually caused by a dirty air filter or leaking refrigerant, can cause the evaporator coils to freeze. When the ice melts, the amount of condensation can overwhelm the drainage system and leak out into the floor. Turning off your AC system for 24 hours should thaw out the system, but it won’t solve the underlying issue. Diagnosing the cause of the frozen evaporators usually requires the expertise of an experienced technician.

If your AC unit is leaking water, turn to Air Comfort Specialist. This reliable HVAC contractor has over 45 years of experience offering cost-effective solutions to homes throughout Minnesota’s Anoka County. Their skilled team will be happy to answer any of your questions as they diagnose your unit's issues. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (763) 755-0770 for prompt, effective AC repairs.