Why Does Water Leak From An Air Conditioner?

Masters Heating & Cooling often get calls about a water “leak” from an air conditioner. I used the quotation marks because your AC really doesn’t leak since there is no water inside an air conditioner. What we’re really talking about is water that is produced as a by-product of the cooling process.

Quick Science Lesson

Warm or hot air can hold more moisture which is why the summers are so humid in Fort Wayne, Decatur, Angola, Indianapolis, Greenwood, and Mishawaka, IN. As the AC removes heat from the air in your home it can’t hold as much water and condensation forms on the cooling coil (just like condensation forms on a cold glass of water).

Condensate Drain System

That water needs to go somewhere, so all central air conditioners are equipped with a drain line. Most systems use PVC pipe to carry the water to a drain or outside the home. So, what most people refer to as a water leak in the air conditioner is really a clogged drainpipe that is causing the water to backup and overflow the drain pan. By the way, we are talking about a lot of water. During a humid Indiana summer your air conditioner can remove anywhere from five to 20 gallons of water every day.

Water Can Quickly Cause Damage

This is why the condensate drain system should ALWAYS be part of regular HVAC maintenance to make sure the water is draining correctly. If not, there can be disastrous consequences. One family I know had a problem with their 2nd floor air handler installed in the attic. Somehow the PVC drain line got clogged without them knowing. The first hint of a problem was condensate water dripping into the bathroom and bedroom below, leaving behind unsightly water stains on the ceilings and walls. One way to protect against this is to install a safety switch. When it senses water in the pan beneath the air handler the system is automatically shut down before the water can overflow and cause damage.

Making Sure It Doesn’t Happen to You

Preventing a problem with the condensate drain system in your Fort Wayne, Decatur, Angola, Indianapolis, Greenwood, or Mishawaka, IN home is just one more reason to schedule annual maintenance for your air conditioner. Call Masters Heating & Cooling now to make your appointment. For more tips to keep your HVAC equipment in top shape, be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.