There are many reasons why this could be happening. Action Air wants you to be informed about the causes and what to do about them.
The primary function of your air conditioning system is to remove the humidity from your home. When your A/C unit runs, warm air flows across the cold evaporator coil and as the coil absorbs the heat from the air, it collects moisture. Much like a glass of cold water on a hot day. The moisture then drips down into a condensate pan and runs into a condensate line to the outside of your home. The warmer and more humid it is inside your home, the more the condensation builds and the more forceful the water is sent through the drain system.
If you notice water around your A/C unit, mold growing, or you experience increased humidity in your home, this could be signs that your unit needs servicing.
Common causes of condensate leaks:
- Clogged drain line
- A clogged drain pipe can cause water to back up in the pan. This can be caused by the buildup of dirt, rust, algae, or other debris.
- Disconnected drain line
- If the condensate piping was not secured and properly assembled when it was installed or not properly reconnected, it can loosen and disconnect causing water to flow all around the home.
- Cracked condensate drain line
- These pipes are usually white PVC or could be black. In any case make sure these are not stepped on or have undue pressure put on them, causing them to crack, which would cause them to leak.
- Condenser pump failure
- A malfunctioning or dirty pump can also cause water leakage from your A/C unit.
- Damaged drain pan
- The purpose of the drain pan is to collect water that drips from the coil. If it gets rusted or cracked that could cause the water to drip into the unit.
- Low refrigerant
- When your system loses small amounts of refrigerant, it results in freezing of the refrigerant lines and the evaporator coil causing a block of ice to form.
- With older A/C units, it is important to identify the source of the leak, as environmental regulations restrict the adding of older refrigerant types to your equipment.
- Blocked Air Filter
- Lack of maintenance to your system and lack of frequent replacement of air filters causes dirt and small particles to enter the air stream into your equipment that can latch onto your evaporator coil causing clogs in the piping.
For a diagram of a typical air conditioning unit, click here.
If you suspect there is something wrong with your air conditioning unit, call Action Air. Our knowledgeable technicians will provide you with the proper assessment and provide options to repair your equipment.
We’ve been providing heating, cooling, sales, and service since 1979. We have certified service technicians, qualified installers, and knowledgeable sales staff.
And as always, when you need action, call Action Air (931) 647-8525.