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If you listen closely to the operation of your air conditioning system, you’ll notice the occasional sound of the dripping and trickling of water. This is normal: it shows your AC’s condensate drainage system is working correctly.
But just because there’s water dripping inside your AC doesn’t mean that water should ever escape from the air conditioner. If you notice the indoor unit of your central AC is leaking water, something is wrong! Below we’ll look at why this might happen and why you may need the help of our Peaden Pros for AC repair in Panama City.
The Role of Condensation in Your AC
When your AC is running, it’s not just cooling your air but also drawing humidity out of it. As warm air passes over the evaporator coils, moisture from the air condenses on these cold coils, forming water droplets. These droplets then fall into a condensate pan and are directed out of your home through a drain line.
Common Causes of AC Leaks
Clogged Condensate Drain Line
One of the most common reasons for water leakage is a clogged condensate drain line. Over time, algae, mold, and debris can build up inside the drain line, causing a blockage. When this happens, the water has nowhere to go and begins to back up, eventually overflowing and leaking out of the AC unit. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the drain line can prevent this issue.
Rusty or Damaged Condensate Pan
The condensate pan collects the water that drips off the evaporator coils before it’s drained away. If this pan becomes rusty or damaged, it can develop holes or cracks, leading to water leaks. Condensate pans, especially in older units, can corrode over time and may need to be replaced to resolve the leakage problem.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
When the evaporator coils freeze, they can cause excess water to overflow when they eventually thaw. Several issues can cause coils to freeze, including dirty air filters, low refrigerant levels, or problems with the blower fan. Addressing the root cause of the frozen coils is essential to stopping the leak.
Improper Installation
If your air conditioner wasn’t installed correctly, it might not be level. A unit that isn’t level can cause the condensate pan to overflow, leading to water leaks. Professional installation by experienced technicians ensures that the unit is installed properly and functions correctly.
The Risks of Ignoring AC Leaks
Ignoring water leaks from your AC can lead to a range of problems, including:
- Tripped Limit Switch: If water overflows from the condensate pan, it may trigger a limit switch that will shut down the air conditioner.
- Water Damage: Continuous leakage can cause damage to your home’s floors, walls, and ceilings. This can result in costly repairs and potential mold growth, which poses health risks.
- Decreased Efficiency: A leaking AC unit is likely not operating at peak efficiency, leading to higher energy bills and a less comfortable home.
- Component Damage: Water leaks can damage other components of your air conditioning system, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs.
Call for the Peaden Pros
Don’t let a small leak turn into a big problem—contact Peaden Pros for expert AC repair today!