What to Do If Your Air Conditioner Is Leaking Water

Few things are more frustrating than walking into your home on a hot day only to find water dripping from your air conditioner. A leaking AC isn’t just an inconvenience — if left unchecked, it can cause water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs.

Before you panic or call for help, know that this is a common issue — and in many cases, you can fix it yourself. Here’s how to figure out why your air conditioner is leaking water and what to do about it.

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💧 Why Is Your Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

Your air conditioner doesn’t just cool the air — it also removes humidity. This moisture collects as condensation on the evaporator coils and normally drains away through a condensate drain line.

When something goes wrong in this process, water can start to pool or leak where it shouldn’t. Here are the most common causes:

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1. A Clogged Drain Line

This is the most frequent culprit. Over time, dust, dirt, and algae can block the drain pipe, causing water to back up and leak inside.

What to do:

• Turn off your AC.

• Locate the drain line (a small PVC pipe).

• Use a wet/dry vacuum to suction out debris.

• Flush with a mixture of water and vinegar to prevent future buildup.

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2. A Dirty Air Filter

If your filter is clogged with dust, airflow becomes restricted. The evaporator coil can freeze, and when it melts, the excess water can overflow.

What to do:

• Replace or clean your air filter every 1–2 months during peak season.

• Check that air is flowing freely from your vents.

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3. Low Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant reduces pressure in the system, causing coils to freeze and then thaw — leading to leaks.

What to do:
You’ll need a licensed HVAC technician to check refrigerant levels and fix any leaks. Don’t try to handle refrigerant yourself.

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4. Broken or Disconnected Drain Pan

The drain pan collects water from the coils before it exits through the drain line. If it’s cracked or rusted, water can leak out instead.

What to do:

• Turn off your unit and inspect the drain pan with a flashlight.

• If it’s damaged, replace it. Many models allow easy pan replacement without professional help.

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5. Improper Installation or Tilt

If your AC unit isn’t level or tilted the wrong way, water may not drain correctly and instead pool in the unit.

What to do:
Ensure your AC is slightly tilted toward the drain line. Adjust the mounting bracket if necessary.

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🚫 When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried the steps above and your air conditioner is still leaking water, it’s time to call in a professional.
You should contact an HVAC technician if:

• The leak is large or constant

• You see ice forming on the coils

• You notice unusual noises or smells

• Your AC stops cooling properly

A technician can safely inspect internal components and prevent further damage.

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🧊 Pro Tips to Prevent Future Leaks

• Clean or replace filters regularly.

• Flush the drain line every 1–2 months with vinegar.

• Schedule annual maintenance for your AC system.

• Keep the area around your indoor unit clean and free of dust.

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✅ Final Thoughts

A leaking air conditioner might look alarming, but it’s often caused by simple issues like a clogged drain or dirty filter. With a little maintenance and attention, you can prevent leaks, keep your AC running efficiently, and avoid costly repairs.

So, the next time you spot a puddle under your AC — don’t panic. Check these common causes first, and you might just save yourself a service call!