Let’s be honest. Ohio’s summers can be hot! It’s very likely that your AC has been working overtime to combat the summer heat. Unfortunately, sometimes, when your AC operates at full capacity, it can lead to water leaks. Understandably, this can be alarming. However, as usual, your Monroe Heating & Air professionals are here to guide you through figuring out what’s going on.
Things to Check When Your AC May Be Leaking:
- The Thermostat
- The Evaporator Coil
- The Condensate Drain
- The Condensate Drain Pan
- The Refrigerant
- The Condenser
1. The Thermostat
Your thermostat controls just how cold the evaporator coils need to get to reach the temperature. When excess water condenses on the evaporator coil, it can start to leak, especially if the thermostat is malfunctioning. So, if your thermostat is failing, your AC system will also be affected.
Think of your thermostat as the “mothership” of your HVAC system. If the mothership fails, the entire fleet is impacted. As a result, when a thermostat malfunctions, it cannot effectively communicate with your HVAC system, which regulates when your AC turns on and off and controls air distribution. Many system issues are often due to a faulty thermostat. The root of your air conditioner problems may simply lie in checking the thermostat.
Begin your troubleshooting by inspecting the thermostat. If your AC is leaking water, you’ll want to first verify that the thermostat settings are correct. Next, check the thermostat is responsive and that you can adjust the settings accordingly. If not, it may require attention, such as fresh batteries or potential wiring issues. In such cases, it would be best to contact a licensed technician for professional assistance.
2. The Evaporator Coil
Another one of the primary reasons your AC could be leaking water is from the evaporator coil freezing. This typically happens when air filters become clogged, which results in the prevention of sufficient air being blown over the coils. As a result, the evaporator coils can freeze, leading to water dripping off.
You can fix this issue by:
- Checking the Air Filters: Ensuring your HVAC system operates efficiently requires regularly inspecting the air filters. If your AC is leaking water or there is water melting off your frozen evaporator coil, it’s prudent to verify your air filters aren’t clogged. Addressing this simple maintenance task could potentially resolve your leaky air conditioning issues with a fresh air filter!
- Adjusting Your Thermostat Settings: To address a frozen evaporator coil, it’s crucial to thaw it first to stop the leaking or drippage. You can facilitate this by raising the thermostat temperature a few degrees to aid in the thawing process. If your entire unit is frozen, it’s advisable to turn off the cooling settings and switch on the fan instead.
3. The Condensate Drain
Your condensate drain could be clogged. The condensate drain is a crucial pipe that directs water from the drain pan to the outside. If it becomes obstructed, the water meant to drain away can start to back up and leak outside of the drain pan.
We strongly advise against troubleshooting this issue yourself to avoid risking damage to your pipes or system. A clogged condensate drain can lead to various AC malfunctions, but it’s a straightforward fix for a qualified and licensed technician.
4. The Condensate Drain Pan
Now, let’s focus on the condensate drain pan. As the drain pan collects water run-off from the evaporator coil while cooling the air, any wear or damage can lead to water leakage on the floor. To prevent such issues, it’s crucial to inspect and maintain your drain pan regularly.
Troubleshooting this issue is straightforward. If you need to replace an old or damaged drain pan, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper installation. If you’re unsure about performing this task, our expert team is here to help.
5. The Refrigerant
When the cooling refrigerant in your air conditioner decreases, the pressure inside the system drops as well. This can cause the evaporator coils to freeze, leading to unwanted and potentially messy issues. You should hire a professional contractor if you notice any signs of low refrigerant, such as:
- Reduced cooling efficiency
- Ice buildup on the evaporator coils
- Hissing or bubbling sounds
To get this issue resolved swiftly, you need to call a licensed technician. They have access to the correct refrigerant for your air conditioner and the proper equipment to refill it safely.
6. The Condenser
Did you know that your air conditioner can “sweat?” This occurs when warm or humid air meets the cool exterior of the AC unit, causing condensation to form. This excess moisture can result in water droplets running off the unit, creating the appearance of a leak. Understanding this phenomenon can help you maintain your AC unit and ensure optimal performance.
While mild condensation shouldn’t raise concern—it happens—an excessively “sweating” unit should be inspected by a professional promptly. The last thing you want is water damage or a compromised AC due to an ongoing issue. Keep your home safe and your AC running smoothly by addressing this problem right away.
We prioritize your safety and comfort! So, if you’re dealing with a leaking air conditioner and can’t determine the cause, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Trust us to deliver our five-star customer service and resolve your issue efficiently.
Our expertise spans a wide range of home services, ensuring we can handle all your needs with professionalism and confidence. From the HVAC industry’s best products to plumbing and electrical systems, we have you covered. For comprehensive home services and the most value for your investment, reach out to us today.
You can beat the heat with the help of your Monroe Heating & Air family! Call us today at (513) 540-4890, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
