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Summertime means cranking up the air conditioning to beat the heat. However, there’s nothing worse than discovering that your air conditioner is leaking water. It may seem like a minor issue, but it can lead to significant problems if left unchecked.
In the latest blog from Sanborn’s Air Conditioning & Heating, we’ll explore what can cause your air conditioning unit to leak water and how it can be fixed.
If Your AC is Leaking Water, What Could Be Wrong?
Several factors can cause your air conditioner to leak water, including:
- Dirty Air Filters: Air filters prevent dust, dirt, and other debris from entering the AC. Over time, filters become clogged with these contaminants. When this happens, the AC has to work harder to push air through them. Consequently, the evaporator coils behind the dirty air filter may freeze, which can cause the AC to leak water.
- Dirty Evaporator Coils: The evaporator coils are responsible for absorbing heat from the air and transferring it to the refrigerant. Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate on the coils, which can cause them to freeze, resulting in water leakage as the coils thaw.
- Improper Installation: An improperly installed AC unit can cause several issues, including water leakage. If the drain line is not installed correctly or is too small, water may not be able to drain properly and may leak from the unit.
- Low Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coil to freeze, resulting in water leakage as the frozen condensation melts. Refrigerant leaks often occur due to issues with the AC’s components or refrigerant lines.
- A Damaged or Clogged Drain Line: The drain line carries condensation from the evaporator coil to the outside of the house. If the drain line becomes clogged or damaged, water may not be able to flow out of the AC and may back up into the unit, resulting in leakage.
Problems That May Occur When Your Air Conditioner is Leaking Water
If left unchecked, AC water leakage can lead to significant problems, including:
- Water Damage: When an AC leaks water, it can damage floors, walls, and other surfaces. Over time, this can lead to mold growth, which can cause health problems.
- High Energy Bills: A leaky AC may be less efficient, leading to higher energy bills. This is because the AC has to work harder to cool the home due to low refrigerant levels or dirty filters.
- AC Malfunction: If water leakage is left unchecked, it can damage the AC’s components, leading to malfunctions and costly repairs.
How to Fix an AC That Is Leaking Water
If your air conditioning system is leaking water, you can take the following steps to fix it:
- Change the Air Filters: Check your filters and replace them if they are dirty. Doing so can prevent the evaporator coil from freezing and causing water leakage.
- Clean the Evaporator Coils: If the evaporator coils are dirty, use a soft brush to remove the dust and debris. Be sure to turn off the power to the AC before attempting to clean the coils.
- Check the Drain Line: Inspect the drain line to ensure that water is flowing out of the unit correctly. If the line is clogged or damaged, you may need to clean or replace it.
- Check the Refrigerant Levels: If the refrigerant level is low, you may need to add more refrigerant to the unit. Be sure to hire a professional HVAC technician to do this, as adding too much refrigerant can damage the AC.
- Hire a Professional HVAC Technician: If your AC system is leaking water and you’re unable to fix the issue, it’s time to call in a professional HVAC technician. They can perform a thorough inspection of your AC and diagnose the issue. They’ll also be able to perform any necessary repairs.
AC Repair in Redlands, CA
An air conditioner leaking water can cause significant problems. If you notice water leakage from your AC, be sure to check your air filters, clean your evaporator coils, and inspect your drain line. If you’re unable to fix the issue, be sure to contact Sanborn’s Air Conditioning & Heating for AC repair in Redlands, CA.