5 Common Reasons Your Air Conditioner is Leaking Water
Once the temperature starts climbing during our Pacific Northwest summer months, most of us turn to our home air conditioners to keep us cool and comfortable. When we are trying to beat the heat, the last thing we want is our AC to go on the fritz.
If you’ve been running your cooling unit and notice water pooling below, don’t panic. Minor condensation and leaks aren’t always a sign of something serious. However, sometimes it might be in your best interest to call our residential HVAC company in Beaverton for help. Want to know more about what causes leaks in your cooling system? Read on for details.
Why Is My Home Air Conditioner Leaking Water?
A variety of factors can play a role in causing your home air conditioning system to leak. Our heating and cooling experts outline the five most common reasons below:
1. Dirty Air Filters
Home cooling systems work by taking in the warm air from inside your home, cooling it with refrigerant, and then distributing the cooled air throughout your residence. Usually, this process goes without any problems. However, if your air filters are faulty, dirty, or clogged, proper airflow is blocked. When this happens, moisture from the air can become trapped, leading to ice on the evaporator coils. As it starts to melt, you might see water droplets coming from your residential HVAC system.
The Fix: It’s best to prevent clogged air filters in the first place by making sure you are changing them regularly. Our Beaverton HVAC installers recommend replacing your filters every three months.
2. Damaged or Rusted Drain Pan
If your air conditioner is 10-15 years old, your drain pan might have corrosion signs due to age. Since this integral part of your AC system is constantly in contact with water, it can rust and develop cracks or holes.
The Fix: A new drain pan should elevate any leaks. If you aren’t sure if the drain pan is the issue or need help selecting the right piece of equipment, call our local HVAC contractors for advice.
3. Clogged Drain Line
Clogged condensate drains are among the most common causes of water leaking from home AC units. These drains filter water from your air conditioner to the outside. Sometimes these drains can get clogged due to dirt, debris, dust, and even mold. When buildup occurs, water can back up into your residence.
The Fix: The best way to deal with a blocked drain is to remove the blockage by thoroughly cleaning it out. While you can employ a few at-home tricks, it’s best to call in the professionals for this job. They know the best way to deal with the issue and recommend preventative solutions for the future.
4. Faulty Condensate Pump
Some air conditioning units rely on pumps to force water from basement HVAC systems to the outside of the home through the drain line. If the condensate pump fails, then excess water is no longer being transferred from inside to outside.
The Fix: To ensure there aren’t other issues with your home heating and cooling system, first check and see if the pump is functioning. If your condensate pump is broken or on the fritz, the only solution is a replacement.
5. Improper AC Installation
Residential HVAC units are complex systems that require expert installation. If a unit is sized incorrectly or improperly installed, a host of problems could crop up, including damage and premature wear and tear. Even something as simple as an uneven install can cause the unit to tilt and water to pool. Always work with a NATE-Certified Beaverton HVAC contractor, like our team at AAA Heating and Cooling, to guarantee your system is installed with care.
Expert Residential HVAC Services in Beaverton
Whether you are looking to upgrade your existing air conditioning system or need help troubleshooting HVAC problems, AAA Heating and Cooling is here to help. Our professional sales and installation team can recommend solutions for all your needs, as well as provide 24-hour emergency assistance. We invite you to contact us today to schedule your appointment.