Why Your Outdoor AC Unit Is Leaking Water & What To Do

If you notice water pooling beneath your outdoor air conditioning unit, your first instinct might be to grab the phone and call a contractor for help. Thankfully, here in Georgia, it’s not uncommon for AC units to have a little leakage now and then. However, there are times when a leaking AC might signal a more significant issue that needs professional attention. We’re here to assist you in distinguishing between normal drips and potential concerns when it comes to water leakage from your unit.

Is It Normal for an AC Unit To Leak?

In general, it’s normal for an AC unit to produce some condensation, especially during hot and humid weather conditions. This condensation typically forms on the evaporator coils inside the unit and is drained away through a condensate line or drain pan.

What’s a Normal Amount of Water To Leak From My Air Conditioner?

There are two main reasons for water (specifically, in this case, condensation) to leak from your air conditioner. One factor is your thermostat setting. The second involves the outdoor temperature. When you live in the hot and humid climate of Macon, Georgia, it’s normal to see condensation pooling by the condenser unit because it’s working extremely hard to cool your house down — especially if you keep your thermostat set lower than normal or if it’s an extremely hot day. As a guideline, if you’re seeing more than a few ounces of water per hour, it’s a good idea to have your unit inspected to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

When Is AC Water Leakage Too Much?

As a rule of thumb, your air conditioner should leak condensation only while it’s running. If a puddle of condensation pools under your compressor, it should dry up after a hot day. If you notice the unit has been leaking for a full day or longer or you notice the puddle of water is consistently getting bigger, it’s probably wise to call Conditioned Air to inspect your AC unit for problems.

Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

Many factors could play a role in why your air conditioner is leaking water either inside the home or out. These include:

• A dirty air filter: If your air conditioner filter becomes clogged or even partially blocked, it can cause the unit’s evaporator coils to freeze, which causes extra water to overflow from the drainage pan.
• Faulty condensate pan: Your air conditioner will leak if the pan that’s designed to hold water breaks down due to age or corrosion.
• Blocked drain pipe: Normal air conditioner function involves water funneling through a series of drainpipes before disappearing down the drain. If any of these drainpipes are blocked, it could cause a water leakage.
• Faulty installation: If your air conditioner is brand new and is experiencing a leaking problem, chances are it is improperly sized for your home or was installed incorrectly.
• Cool outdoor temperatures: If you try to cool your home when the outside temperature is below 60 degrees, the coils may freeze up and cause water leakage.
• Low refrigerant level: When the refrigerant level for your AC is too low, it causes the unit to lose pressure. This can cause freezing coils, which may overflow the drain pan when it melts.

What To Do When Your AC Unit Is Leaking Water

1. Turn Off the AC: As soon as you notice water leakage, turn off your air conditioning unit to prevent further damage or potential hazards.
2. Check for Obstructions: Inspect the area around your AC unit for any blockages or debris that might be obstructing the drainage system. Clear away any leaves, dirt, or other debris that could be causing a clog.
3. Inspect the Condensate Drain Line: Check the condensate drain line for any signs of blockage or damage. If it’s clogged, you can try clearing it using a wet/dry vacuum or a pipe cleaner. Be cautious when working with the drain line to avoid causing damage.
4. Clean or Replace the Air Filter: A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause your AC unit to produce more condensation than usual. Check the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary.
5. Check for Refrigerant Leaks: If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a professional HVAC technician immediately. Refrigerant leaks can be harmful to your health and require specialized equipment to repair.
6. Inspect the Evaporator Coil: Inspect the evaporator coil for any signs of dirt or debris buildup. If the coil is dirty, it can impede airflow and cause the unit to produce excess condensation. Clean the coil if necessary, following manufacturer recommendations.
7. Schedule Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling regular maintenance for your AC unit to ensure it’s functioning properly and to catch any potential issues before they escalate. A professional HVAC technician can inspect your system, clean components, and make any necessary repairs.
8. Monitor for Continued Leakage: After taking these steps, monitor your AC unit for any signs of continued leakage. If the problem persists or worsens, contact a professional HVAC technician for further assistance.
9. Consider Preventative Measures: To prevent future water leakage issues, consider installing a condensate overflow pan with a float switch or a condensate pump. These devices can help to detect and mitigate water overflow from your AC unit.

Schedule AC Repair in the Macon Area With Conditioned Air

If your air conditioner is leaking water and you need a contractor, call the experts at Conditioned Air, Inc. to solve the problem. Conditioned Air has more than 70 years of experience in the installation, repair, replacement, and maintenance of HVAC equipment in Middle Georgia. Our highly skilled team is standing by to repair your air conditioner day or night with our 24/7 emergency HVAC services.

Give us a call at 478-742-8768 or schedule an online appointment today for AC repair in Macon, GA, or the surrounding areas.

  Contact Us

  (478) 742-8768