Why is my air conditioner leaking water?

Is your air conditioner leaking water?

An air conditioner is a true lifesaver during heatwaves, providing a sanctuary of coolness and comfort either in your home or business and in the cooler months the adjustable temperature will provide a warm and cosy atmosphere. It's not surprising that the majority of Queensland households have at least one air conditioning unit to provide indoor comfort with perfect climate control. Did you know that an Air conditioner in peak working order will help to filter out dust, allergens, and pollutants to contribute to cleaner and healthier indoor air, which undoubtedly is beneficial for someone with allergies? So when something goes wrong with your AC it's important to have it fixed promptly.

Common causes of air conditioner water leaks:

It's important to address air conditioner water leaks promptly to prevent further damage to your unit and the surrounding area. Therefore if you've noticed water dripping or pooling around your air conditioner, you may be wondering why this is happening. Leaking water from any appliance is generally an indication that something is not right, and this includes leaking water from your AC unit. The good news is that understanding the underlying reasons can help you address the issue effectively and promptly, this will ensure you enjoy optimal performance, energy efficiency, and prolong the lifespan of your air-con.

Clogged Condensate Drain Line

One of the primary reasons for water leakage is a clogged condensate drain line. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate in the drain line, obstructing the flow of condensation. As a result, the water backs up and can leak from the unit.

Improper Installation

If your air conditioner was not installed correctly, it can lead to water leakage. Improperly positioned or tilted units can cause condensation to accumulate and overflow, resulting in water leakage.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

A frozen evaporator coil can also be a culprit behind water leaks. When the coil freezes, ice can build up and eventually melt, causing excess water to drip or leak from the unit.

Dirty Air Filters

When air filters become dirty or clogged, it restricts proper airflow. This can lead to the evaporator coil becoming too cold, causing ice formation. Once the ice melts, it can result in water leakage.

Damaged Condensate Pan or Pump

A cracked or damaged condensate pan or malfunctioning condensate pump can cause water to leak from the air conditioner. These components are responsible for collecting and removing condensation, so any damage or malfunction can result in leaks.

Overload or Oversized Unit

If your air conditioner is oversized for the space it is cooling, it may cycle on and off frequently. This can prevent the evaporator coil from reaching the optimal temperature, leading to ice formation and subsequent water leakage.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Turn off the air conditioner - Switch off the unit to prevent any potential damage caused by the continued operation.
• Check and clean the air filters -  Remove and clean or replace dirty air filters to ensure proper airflow.
• Inspect the condensate drain line - If possible, locate the drain line and check for any clogs or obstructions. Clearing the blockage can resolve the issue.
• Schedule professional maintenance - Contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect and service your air conditioner, a qualified AC technician can identify underlying issues and perform necessary repairs or cleaning before they become bigger issues.

Practical reasons to service your air conditioner regularly:

1 - Maintain efficiency 

Keeping running costs as low as possible by ensuring the system is running at its most efficient.

2 - Reducing breakdowns at peak time 

Steaming hot summer days when the air conditioning system is working the hardest and when you need it the most tend to be when failures occur. Keeping the system in top condition reduces the chance of disruptions.

3 - Keep the air clean

Cleaning and servicing ducts, filters, coils, fins, and other internal components help to provide clean, fresh air throughout your home or business.

4 - Extend the life of the aircon system

Faulty air conditioners wear out quicker than well-maintained units do, which reduces replacement costs in the long term. Your air conditioner will function efficiently, and save you money on power bills.

5 - Ensuring reliability

Regular servicing ensures the system works at optimal performance all year round.

6 - Uncover issues early

Many small problems are discovered during servicing allowing for repairs to be carried out before larger and more costly issues develop.

Air Conditioning Specialists

Sea Air air conditioning technicians have a wealth of experience servicing air conditioners, we provide practical solutions for all aircon problems. Servicing Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Gympie, and the Gold Coast  Call 0401 787 183 or you can book a service online.