Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

Air conditioning systems normally produce water during normal operation. This water, or condensate, is normally collected and drained to a floor drain, sump pit, or the home’s drain system. If you notice some water on the floor outside the house, under the condenser, this is normal. If you think the amount of water produced by the AC is excessive, you should call a competent HVAC contractor to come and take a look at your system. The problem could be much more serious than you may think.

Where Does The Water Come From?

The main function of the AC system is to cool air. When warm moist air is cooled, water vapor normally condenses on the surrounding surfaces. The water droplets normally collect and accumulate in the condensate pan before being led away by the drain pipe to a floor drain or outside the house. Under normal circumstances, you should not even be able to notice any water, unless the drain pipe drains water outside the house.

Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner Leaks Water

Clogged Condensate Drain

As mentioned above, water vapor normally condenses when air is cooled. Since air may also be dirty, the water droplets may trap dust. Over time, the mixture of water and dust may form mud, which clogs the condensate drain. When the condensate accumulates in the pan, it will start overflowing due to the clogged drain. This normally occurs in AC units that are poorly maintained. To prevent this from happening, you should have your air conditioner serviced by an expert on a regular basis. An annual tune-up prevents these types of circumstances.

Cracked Condensate Pan

The condensate pan is responsible for collecting water droplets produced during the cooling process. If the pan is cracked, the condensate leaks from your air conditioner. The main causes of cracking are rusting and the effects of aging.

Clogged Air Filters

Every air conditioning system has at least one air filter that is responsible for filtering air. It improves the quality of air indoors. Also, it prevents dirt and other debris from accumulating inside of the unit. Over time, the air filter in your AC gets clogged with dust and other types of airborne particles that has accumulated. This is especially true when it has not be changed or replaced as often as necessary. This reduces the flow of air which is vital for the proper function of an air conditioner. As a result, water droplets that condense on the evaporator coils will freeze. The ice will increase in size. When the AC is turned off (or it is not running), after the desired room temperature has been reached, the ice will start melting. This will lead to overflowing of water from the condensate pan.

 

Disconnected Drain Pipe

Poor installation of your air conditioner can cause water leaks. This is because the drain pipe may loosen and get disconnected. This will cause water leakage in the condenser.

When to Call For Professional AC Repairs

As noted earlier, a small amount of water from your AC system is normal. Many homeowners see a small amount of water and assume there is an issue. However, circumstances where your AC produces an abnormal amount of water or when you notice signs of water leaks around the AC for more than 24 hours, call a reputable HVAC company to come and inspect the AC system. They will carry out the necessary A/C repairs to fix your water leak. It should be noted that when you notice that your AC is acting abnormally, be sure to address it right away. The longer you wait, the more that the AC repair service may cost you. This is because these types of issues escalate into bigger and more costly ones when they are left unattended.

Air Conditioner Leaking Water Cranbury NJ

When you need an AC repair, contact Princeton Heating & Air Conditioning. We offer professional, friendly, and skilled air conditioning services. PFO has been providing AC services since 1942 and we offer free AC consultations. PFO also offers many different types of home services. For a detailed list of what PFO can offer you, click here.

 

We service Cranbury NJ 08512, Dayton NJ 08810, Helmetta NJ 08828, Hightstown NJ 08520, Monmouth Junction NJ 08852, Monroe Township NJ 08831, Plainsboro NJ 08536, Princeton Junction NJ 08550, Windsor NJ 08561, and surrounding areas!

 

Princeton Heating & Air Conditioning is proud to be an authorized dealer for Carrier HVAC systems. We are among the few providers that reside in New Jersey to hold a Carrier Presidents Award Dealer distinction. This means that such an outstanding manufacturer like Carrier has recognized Princeton Heating & Air Conditioning as providing high quality and skilled services to our customers. This should give you peace of mind when working with our contractors. To learn about Carrier systems, click here.

Contact us now at (800) 253-9001 to find out more!

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