So your air conditioner is dripping water all over the floor, and you're not sure why. An AC leak can be annoying at best and damaging at worst, so diagnosing and fixing the problem quickly is essential. The good news is that the three most common causes of AC leaks are often easy to detect and repair, saving you time and money. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to find the source of the leak in your unit, the steps to fix minor issues, and when it's best to call in a pro. When you're done reading, you'll be well on your way to a leak-free, energy-efficient AC again.
Identifying the Source of the Leak
If your AC unit leaks, you'll want to find and fix the problem quickly. The three most common causes of air conditioner leaks are:
Clogged Drain Lines
Over time, dust and debris can build up inside your AC's drain lines, preventing water from properly draining. This often leads to water overflowing from the unit. The fix is simple—just clean out the drain lines! Shut off the power to your AC, locate the drain lines (typically plastic hoses), and use a wet/dry vac to unclog them. Run a drain cleaner through for tough clogs. Once cleared, turn the power back on and test to ensure the water is flowing freely again.
Faulty Seals or Gaskets
The seals and gaskets in your AC help contain the refrigerant and water in the system. If they become damaged or worn, leaks can develop. You may need an HVAC pro to replace the faulty seals and recharge the refrigerant. Sealants and HVAC tape can temporarily patch the problem for small leaks until a pro can properly fix it.
Corroded Coils or Lines
Over years of use, your AC's coils, valves, and lines can corrode, leading to leaks and reduced efficiency. Unfortunately, the only fix for corroded parts is to have an HVAC contractor replace them. They can assess the damage, replace what's needed, recharge refrigerant, and get your AC running like new again.
With regular maintenance, many leaks can be prevented before causing costly damage. But if you spot an AC leak, identifying the source is the first step to getting it repaired and your unit back in working order. Call an HVAC pro for issues beyond basic fixes—your AC's health and home comfort depend on it!
Fixing a Refrigerant Leak
If your AC unit leaks refrigerant, that's a problem you'll want to fix immediately. Refrigerant allows your air conditioner to cool your home. Hence, a leak means your system has to work harder, and your energy bills will increase.
The most common causes of refrigerant leaks are:
- Faulty seals or gaskets: The seals and gaskets in your AC unit contain the refrigerant and allow the system to operate under pressure. Over time, seals can dry out, crack, or become damaged, allowing refrigerant to escape. Replacing the faulty seals is often an easy fix.
- Corroded or punctured lines: The refrigerant lines carry the refrigerant between the condenser, evaporator coil, and compressor. If these lines become corroded or punctured, the refrigerant will leak. Patching or replacing damaged lines will solve the issue.
- Compressor failure: The compressor is the heart of your AC unit and is responsible for circulating the refrigerant. If the compressor malfunctions or fails, it may leak refrigerant. Replacing the compressor is the only option in this case.
You'll need to call an HVAC technician to locate and repair a refrigerant leak. They can perform leak detection tests using specialized equipment to pinpoint the source of the leak. Then, they can complete the necessary repairs or part replacements to seal up the leak and get your AC back in working order.
It's best not to ignore a refrigerant leak. Schedule service right away to avoid discomfort, higher bills, and potential damage to your air conditioner. A fast fix can help ensure efficient and reliable cooling for years.
Repairing a Drainage Line Leak
A leaky air conditioner is usually due to a problem with the drainage lines that remove the condensation from the unit. The good news is a drainage line leak is often an easy fix, even for DIYers.
The first step is to locate the source of the leak. Check where the water is dripping from—it will usually come from one of the drain holes or lines at the unit's base. You may need to run the AC for a short time to see the water flow and pinpoint the leak. Once found, turn off the power to the unit at the breaker before attempting any repairs.
Next, inspect the drain line and pan for any clogs or damage. The drain line is typically a PVC pipe that runs from the drain pan under the unit to the outside. The drain pan collects excess condensation and funnels it out. Use a vacuum, plumber's snake, or drain auger to clear any clogs in the line.
You may need to replace part of the line. Hardware stores sell PVC pipes, connectors, and solvents for an easy fix.
If the drain line and pan are clear, the leak could be due to a damaged or rusted overflow switch or drain float—parts that detect when the drain line is clogged and shut off the unit. You may need to call an HVAC technician to test and replace these parts.
As a temporary solution until repairs can be made, you can place a bucket under the unit to catch drips or run a hose from the drain line to a drain or outside to redirect water flow. But do not run the AC for long in this state, as water may overflow from the backup and cause water damage.
Repairing an AC drainage line leak is usually an easy DIY task for the handy homeowner. But if the problem seems more complex, or you are not comfortable doing the work yourself, call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and fix the issue—it's best not to delay repairs on your air conditioner.
Sealing a Leaky Condensate Pan
A cracked or damaged condensate pan is one of the most common causes of air conditioner leaks. The condensate pan collects the water that drips from your AC unit as it removes humidity from the air. Over time, the pan can develop cracks or holes, allowing water to seep.
To seal a leaky condensate pan, you'll first need to shut off the power to your AC unit for safety. Next, locate the condensate pan—it's typically at the base of the unit or in the attic or crawlspace where your AC is installed. Inspect the pan closely for any visible cracks or holes. You may need to wipe the pan down to get a better look.
If you spot a leak or crack, you can seal and patch it using a waterproof epoxy or sealant, which you can find at any hardware store. Clean and rough up the area around the leak, then apply the epoxy as directed, smoothing it over the hole or crack.
For larger holes or severely damaged pans, it may be best to replace the entire condensate pan. Make sure to purchase a pan specifically designed for your AC unit model. Turn off the power and water supply, remove the old pan, and install the new one, reconnecting all tubes and drainage lines.
Once the pan is sealed or replaced, turn the power and water back on and run your AC to ensure no more leaks before leaving the area. It's also a good idea to regularly check on your AC unit to catch any future condensate pan issues early.
If you have an older AC unit, the condensate pan may have simply rusted or corroded over time and need replacement. Don't attempt any DIY fixes in this case. Call an HVAC professional to inspect, test, and replace the condensate pan. They can also check the rest of your AC unit to ensure optimal and energy-efficient operation.
Safety Tips When Repairing AC Leaks
When repairing an AC leak, safety should be your top priority. There are a few precautions you should take to avoid injury or damage.
Turn off the power
Before doing any work on your AC unit, turn off the power on the entire system in the breaker box. Water and electricity do not mix! Ensure all AC parts, including the condenser outside, are fully de-energized.
Ventilate and drain
The area around the AC unit may contain hazardous refrigerants. Ventilate the space and consider wearing gloves and goggles. Drain any excess water from drain pans or lines before starting repairs.
Be careful on ladders and rooftops
Exercise extreme caution if accessing the AC from a ladder, roof, attic, or crawlspace. Have someone spot you and consider wearing a harness for any height over 10 feet. Roof surfaces can be slippery, so make sure to maintain three points of contact with the ladder or roof at all times.
Call a pro if in doubt
Some AC repairs are best left to the professionals to avoid damage or injury. Call an HVAC technician if the leak seems complex or you have limited DIY experience. Your safety is more important than saving money!
Consider a temporary fix
If waiting for an HVAC pro, you may want to implement a temporary solution to redirect leaking water and prevent damage. Place buckets, tarps, or pans under the leak.
Directorii: The Best HVAC Contractors Near You to Fix an Air Conditioner Leak
Empowered with the knowledge to diagnose and fix common air conditioner leaks, you can now take control of your AC's health. With a bit of determination and some handy tools, you'll have your AC leak-free and running efficiently in no time. However, if you're ever in doubt, don't hesitate to call on Directorii to hire a professional HVAC contractor near you. We ensure every specialist on our platform is certified, licensed, and top-tier in their field. By carefully selecting the best contractors in your area, we guarantee that your home improvement projects are in safe hands when you choose Directorii. Join our platform today and benefit from a $20,000 guarantee when you register a job with us.
