When your AC unit starts leaking water, it should be a cause for concern. Not only can a leaking air conditioning unit be a sign of a system problem, but it can also lead to costly damage to your home if not promptly addressed.

If your AC is leaking water, don’t ignore it! While it is never a bad idea to contact an AC repair expert in these situations, if you are a ‘do-it-yourself’ type of homeowner, you can try to investigate the problem on your own. Sometimes AC water leaks can be addressed without a service call. Always exercise extreme caution, however, so as to ensure your own safety and avoid causing further damage to the AC unit.

Common Reasons Why an AC is Leaking Water

Before trying to figure out why your AC is leaking water, let’s consider some common causes for air conditioning system leaks:

Clogged Drain Line – Oftentimes an AC unit leaks water because it has a clogged drain line. Dirt, dust, and algae can accumulate in the drain line, causing a blockage that prevents the condensate from draining properly.

Frozen Evaporator Coil – When the AC evaporator coil becomes frozen due to restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels, it can eventually thaw and lead to excess water dripping from the unit.

Improper Installation – Poorly installed AC units may not be properly leveled, leading to uneven condensate drainage and leaks.

Dirty Air Filter – A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the evaporator coil to freeze and subsequently drip water.

Refrigerant Leaks – Low refrigerant levels can result in temperature fluctuations and excessive condensation, leading to water leaks.

Cracked or Damaged Drain Pan – The drain pan underneath the evaporator coil can become cracked or damaged over time, causing water to leak out.

What to Do When Your AC is Leaking Water

Before investigating why your AC is leaking water, turn the system off. This will prevent further damage and potential electrical dangers. Also, check for electrical hazards, such as exposed wires or sockets near the leaking area. Keep in mind, also: by doing some of this work yourself, you could be voiding a manufacturer’s warranty. If you’re unsure about anything, it’s best to contact a professional technician.

Before you begin your inspection, you will also need to safely remove any water that has collected around the AC unit. You can use towels, a wet-dry vacuum, or a mop to do this. Once the area is prepared, follow these investigative steps:

1. Inspect the Drain Line
Check the drain line for clogs. If you find a blockage, you can attempt to clear it by using a wet-dry vacuum or a long, flexible brush. Be cautious not to damage the drain line.

2. Change the Air Filter
If your air filter is dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one to ensure proper airflow.

3. Wait for the AC to Thaw
If the evaporator coil is frozen and near the water you’ve noticed, let the unit thaw completely before turning it back on. This may take several hours.

4. Monitor the System
After addressing the issue, turn the AC back on and monitor it closely. If the problem persists, or if you suspect a refrigerant leak or a damaged drain pan, it’s best to contact a professional HVAC technician for further diagnosis and repair.

Prevent Future AC Leaks with Proper Maintenance

Avoid problems with your AC leaking water in the future by following these tips:

• Keep the area around your AC unit clean and free from debris to promote proper airflow.
• Change your air filters regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer or HVAC technician.
• Ask your Hauser technician about a condensate pump to help with proper drainage, especially if your AC unit is located in a basement or crawlspace.
• Consider investing in a Hauser Air Pro service plan, which includes maintenance checks to ensure that your system is in good working order.

Regular maintenance and prompt action when leaks occur can help keep your AC system running efficiently and prevent costly damage to your home. While some minor leaks can be addressed by homeowners, if your AC is leaking water consistently, the issue may be more complex and best left to a professional HVAC technician. The Hauser Air team is here to serve your air conditioning system needs in the Greater Cincinnati area. Contact us to request an appointment.

Most would agree, one of summer’s greatest pleasures is stepping into a cool space after hours of fun in the sun. But what happens when you discover your AC is no longer blowing cold air? It is easy to panic, but before you do, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. The following are some easy suggestions for what to do when your AC is not blowing cold air.

Check the Thermostat Settings

Start with the simplest possible problem. Make sure your thermostat is set to the cooling mode and the desired temperature is lower than the current room temperature. Sometimes, the problem is as simple as incorrect thermostat settings.

Ensure the Air Filter is Clean

A clogged or dirty air filter can significantly reduce your AC’s efficiency. A compromised filter restricts airflow, making it difficult for your system to properly cool the air. Make it a habit to replace your air filter regularly. Check it and replace if needed every one to three months, depending on usage and the type of filter you have.

Clean the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are usually located in the outdoor unit of your air conditioning system. Dirt, debris, and grime can build up on these coils over time and impede heat transfer and hinder the unit’s ability to cool the air. You can clean the condenser coils with a gentle spray from your garden hose, however, if they are not readily accessible, cleaning them should be left to a professional.

Check for Refrigerant Leaks

If your AC is not blowing cold air, it could be due to low refrigerant level. The refrigerant in your system is what absorbs and releases heat. While refrigerant levels in the system should not diminish over time, if there is a leak somewhere in the refrigerant lines, the system may not have enough coolant to produce cold air. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a licensed HVAC technician to locate and repair the leak and recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant.

Examine the Evaporator Coils

The job of your air conditioning system’s evaporator coils is to absorb heat from the indoor air. Over time, these coils can become dirty or frosted, reducing their ability to absorb heat. If you notice ice or frost on the coils, turn off the AC and let them thaw. Contact a professional to come check out your unit.

Ensure Proper Airflow

Blocked or restricted airflow can affect your AC’s performance. Check that there are no obstructions around the indoor and outdoor units, like furniture, curtains, or debris. Additionally, make sure all vents and registers are open and unblocked to allow proper air circulation.

Test the Capacitor and Compressor

Faulty capacitors or compressors can also be a reason why your AC is not blowing cold air. These components are best evaluated and repaired by a qualified technician. If you suspect an issue with either, it’s time to call for professional help.

Regular Maintenance

Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining your AC’s performance. Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional HVAC technician to keep your system running smoothly. They can identify and address issues before they become major problems. The best way to stay ahead of potential problems with your air conditioning is through a preventive maintenance plan.

Knowing what to do when your AC is not blowing cold air is critical – especially during the hottest days of summer. Many common issues can be resolved with some basic homeowner troubleshooting. If you are unsure about performing the checks listed above on your own, or if you run through them and are still having problems, consult a qualified HVAC technician who can diagnose and perform AC repair services properly.

The Hauser Air team is here to serve your air conditioning system needs in the Greater Cincinnati area. Contact us to request an appointment.