Potential Problems That Can Cause an Air Conditioner to Leak Water

When an air conditioner leaks water, it becomes a source of various problems. Preventing conditions that cause an air conditioning system to leak goes a long way in avoiding further complications.

Condensation, as the dehumidifier in an air conditioner works to pull moisture out of the air, is normal. Anything over the normal condensation amount is considered leaking. When an air conditioner leaks water, it becomes a source of various problems. Preventing conditions that cause an air conditioning system to leak goes a long way in avoiding further complications. Here are some ways to spot potential problems that can lead to an air conditioner leak.

Improper Installation

First, make sure the air conditioner is installed properly by checking if it's level. An uneven installation will cause leaks. Excessive pressure in the system, caused by closed household vents, can lead to leaks from the valves, creating pooling water.

Broken Pump

When an air conditioner leaks water, check the condenser pump to ensure it's operating properly. Pour water into the condenser pan and then check if the unit is pumping out the extra water. If not, the pump may be the issue. Check that the pump is connected to its power source. If it is, then a check of the motor or the condenser is in order. Call a qualified professional to diagnose the problem further.

Drain Hole Blockage

When an air conditioning system removes water, it drains the water away from the unit, keeping the condenser pan from overflowing. If this drain area is blocked by accumulated debris or other material, it will cause leakage. Follow the tubing leading to the drain end and clear the visible blockage at that point. The water level in the condenser pan should drain properly after the blockage is cleared.

Cold Outdoor Temperatures

When the temperature begins to drop outdoors, the water in the condenser pan can actually build up due to the lower temperatures. Water increases around the air conditioning unit and begins to pool. As outdoor temperatures rise, normal evaporation will stop the pooling. If the water becomes excessive, shut the unit down.

Air Leakage

Tight seals on an air conditioner are important to prevent warm air from seeping inside the unit. Excessive warm air makes moisture contained with it begin to condense as it meets the cooler air inside the unit. As this process repeats, pools of water form below the unit. Check the seals and reseal any that need attention.

Pooling water can lead to problems in the foundation and surrounding areas when an air conditioner leaks water. It attracts outdoor pests, including a breeding area for mosquitoes, and can be a harbor for mold and mildew. Excessive pooling is a signal the air conditioner is not working efficiently. This leads to increasing energy costs, and cooling capacity could be adversely affected. Call an air conditioning expert for help in determining the sources of excessive water pooling to keep the air conditioner running at top efficiency.

Forecast Heating, Cooling, and Refrigeration serves residential and commercial customers in Summerlin, Anthem, North Las Vegas, Boulder City and Las Vegas. Call us at 702-919-4546.