Key Takeaways
- If you notice your AC dripping water, don’t panic; it’s often a common and fixable issue.
- The most frequent causes of AC water leaks include clogged condensate drain lines, dirty air filters, low refrigerant levels, damaged drain pans, and Tallahassee’s high humidity.
- Although an AC dripping water doesn’t always indicate a serious problem, it’s important to identify and fix the cause early to prevent system damage or indoor moisture issues.
- Professional HVAC maintenance can prevent most AC dripping problems, keeping your system clean, efficient, and properly draining.
If you’ve noticed your water dripping, you might wonder whether it’s normal or a sign of something wrong. While a small amount of condensation is common, constant dripping can point to an underlying issue that needs attention. The good news is that most causes are simple to fix once identified.
With over 50 years of experience serving the Tallahassee area, the NATE-certified technicians at Air Control Heating and Cooling have seen it all when it comes to AC systems leaking water. In this guide, we’ll explain the seven most common reasons your AC drips water, what’s normal versus what’s not, and when to call in a professional for help.
Clogged Drain Line
A clogged condensate drain line is one of the most common causes of water dripping from an AC. Condensation that naturally forms during the air conditioning process collects in the unit’s drain pan and flows out through the drain line. However, if the line gets clogged with debris, dirt, mold, or algae, it blocks the flow and causes the AC unit to drip water. Regular maintenance prevents ACs from dripping water due to clogged drain lines. A DIY fix involves clearing the clog with a wet/dry vacuum or a vinegar flush.
Dirty Air Filter
When an AC system’s airflow is restricted due to a dirty air filter, it causes the evaporator coils to freeze. As this ice melts, the resultant excess water can overflow the drain pan, leading to drips. Regular maintenance, including periodic air filter replacement, will keep this dripping-water issue at bay.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Evaporator coils are also prone to freezing if the AC system’s pressure drops due to low refrigerant levels. Again, the resultant ice melt can produce excess water that overwhelms the drain pan’s capacity, causing the AC to drip water. This potential issue should be checked by an AC repair technician, who can check for refrigerant leaks and recharge refrigerant levels.
Damaged or Rusted Drain Pan
A cracked, corroded, or rusted AC system drain pan can allow water to leak, causing your system to drip water. You or a service technician can inspect and replace the pan if it’s damaged.
High Humidity Levels
In exceptionally humid conditions, an AC system will produce more condensation than usual, which can overwhelm the system’s drainage system. Of course, we live in Tallahassee, where high humidity levels are the norm. Aside from ensuring the drain is clear, there is not much you can do about this problem. However, if your AC system is prone to dripping water during high humidity, it may mean the system is not sized correctly for your interior spaces. To resolve this problem, you may need to add a dehumidifier to your system or consider AC replacement.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
We’ve already noted that frozen evaporator coils can cause AC water dripping, and that a dirty air filter or low refrigerant levels typically cause this problem. If replacing air filters and restoring refrigerant levels don’t resolve the issue, your system’s blower motor may be starting to fail. After ensuring that air flows are not being impeded by a dirty filter or low refrigerant levels, AC technicians check the integrity of the blower motor.
Improper Installation
If your AC unit is not level, its drain pan may not collect water properly, allowing some to leak out of the pan and drip. Similarly, an improperly sloped drain line can also cause issues. A professional inspection and re-leveling of the unit, and/or re-sloping of the drain line will resolve the AC dripping water if this is the cause.
Prevent AC Water Dripping with Professional HVAC Maintenance
Regular AC maintenance typically prevents HVAC systems from dripping water. Occasional AC water dripping may not be cause for concern, especially during periods of exceptionally high humidity. However, if AC water dripping is frequent or non-stop, and accompanied by strange noises and/or reduced interior cooling, you should seek professional HVAC service.
To prevent AC water dripping from your system and ensure optimal, efficient cooling performance, consider joining Air Control’s maintenance plan. With tiered membership levels, our Air Control Club offers Tallahassee-area customers convenient and cost-effective HVAC system operational peace of mind, including 18-point inspections, condenser coil and drain cleanings, and numerous other maintenance benefits.
Serving the Tallahassee area with outstanding HVAC maintenance, repairs, and installation since 1968, contact the NATE-certified, Carrier-authorized heating and cooling experts at Air Control Heating and Cooling for all of your cooling and heating needs.
FAQs: AC Dripping Water
Q: What are the most common reasons for an AC dripping water?
A: A clogged condensate drain line is one of the most common causes of AC dripping water. Dirty air filters, low refrigerant levels, and exceptionally high humidity can also cause the problem.
Q: Can I run my AC if it’s dripping water?
A: For minor or occasional dripping, you can run the AC until you identify and resolve the underlying issue. However, significant, ongoing dripping accompanied by poor cooling, iced-up coils, and/or strange noises should be resolved as soon as possible.
Q: Will an AC that frequently drips water cause mechanical issues with the system?
A: If the underlying cause of an AC dripping water is not identified and resolved, it may lead to mechanical issues that can negatively impact the system. Excess water in the system may lead to corrosion, electrical damage, compressor failure, and performance issues.
Q: Does an dripping water pose a risk of electrical shock?
A: In general, an AC dripping water poses a low to moderate risk of electrical shock. The risk should be considered enhanced if water drips onto electrical components or causes excessive pooling. If water is near electrical components, or you notice sparking, buzzing, or electrical burning smells, turn off the unit and call for professional HVAC service.
Q: Is dripping water a sign my AC may need replacing?
A: With newer models, it’s not likely, and drips can typically be resolved with proper maintenance. Older HVAC systems, particularly those 10-15 years old and above, that frequently drip despite regular maintenance or have other issues, may be nearing the end of their operational lifespan.