Oh no! You’ve noticed your air conditioner is leaking water. Is this cause for concern? In some cases, yes – but in others, it may not be a big deal.
Let’s take a closer look at three common causes of an A/C unit leaking water and whether or not you should be worried.
1. Your air conditioner is “sweating”
If you notice water droplets on the outside of your air conditioner unit, it may be sweating. This is actually a good sign! It means your A/C is doing its job of cooling the air.
As the warm air from your home blows over the cold coils inside the unit, it causes condensation. This water drips down into a drain pan and out of the unit…hence, the appearance of “sweat.”
If you notice your air conditioner is sweating more than usual, it may be a sign that the coils are dirty. This can reduce efficiency and cause the unit to work harder, which uses more energy and raises your utility bills.
A simple cleaning with a coil cleaner can usually resolve the problem. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.
2. Your drain line is clogged
Another common reason for water leakage is a clogged drain line. The drain line carries the water that drips off the coils out of your air conditioner unit.
If the line becomes clogged, water will back up into the unit and leak out. This can happen if the line becomes disconnected, there’s a build-up of dirt or debris, or an animal has made a nest in the line.
A clogged drain line is a serious problem that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. If you don’t, it could cause water damage to your home when the unit leaks.
You can try to clear the line yourself with a wet/dry vac, but it’s often best to call a professional. They have the tools and experience to quickly clear the line and get your A/C unit up and running again.
3. Your air conditioner is too big for your home
If your air conditioner is too big for your home, it will cycle on and off more frequently than a properly sized unit. This can cause water to build up and leak out of the unit.
An A/C unit that’s too big for your home will not only waste energy and drive up your utility bills, but it can also shorten the lifespan of your unit.
If you think your air conditioner may be too big for your home, it’s best to call a professional. They can help you choose the right sized unit for your home and ensure it’s installed properly.
So, should you be worried if your air conditioner is leaking water? It depends on the cause. In some cases, it may not be a big deal. But in others, it could be a sign of a serious problem. If you’re not sure what to do, it’s always best to call the professionals at Weather Master for help! We want to keep you cool this summer in your Raleigh area home, so contact us today. Schedule an appointment online or call now: (919) 853-7910