Let’s face it; Ohio summers can be scorching! Your AC has probably been working overtime to keep up with the heat. Unfortunately, when it’s running full blast, it might start leaking water. We get that this can be pretty alarming, but don’t worry, your Upper Arlington Heating & Air pros are here to help you figure out what’s going on. 

1. Thermostat   

Think of your thermostat as the “boss” of your HVAC system. If the boss fails, the whole team does, too. When a thermostat malfunctions, it can’t properly communicate with your HVAC system—telling your AC when to turn on and off, push out air, and so on. Many system issues can be traced back to a faulty thermostat.  

The source of your air conditioner problems might just be a quick thermostat check. Try checking the batteries in your thermostat (if applicable to your thermostat model). They may simply need to be changed for a fresh set. 

2. Evaporator Coil   

One of the main reasons AC units leak water is because the evaporator coil freezes. This usually happens when air filters get too clogged, and there’s not enough air blowing over the coils. When the evaporator coils get that cold, they can freeze over, causing water to drip off. 

You can fix this issue by:   

• Check the Air Filters: Make it a habit to check your HVAC air filters. They should be replaced every 1 to 3 months, but it’s always good to double-check to ensure a clogged filter isn’t causing issues. A fresh air filter might just solve your leaky air conditioning problems! 
• Check the Thermostat Settings: First, you need to thaw that frozen evaporator coil before the drips or leaks will stop completely. Raise the thermostat temperature a few degrees to help with the thawing process. (If your whole unit is frozen, it’s best to turn off the cooling and turn on the fan instead.) 

3. Condensate Drain   

Your condensate drain might be clogged. The condensate drain is the pipe that channels water from the drain pan to the outside. If it becomes clogged, the water intended to drain can back up and leak from the drain pan. 

We do not recommend attempting to resolve this issue on your own, as it may risk damaging your pipes or system. A clogged condensate drain can cause various AC malfunctions, but it is a straightforward fix for a qualified and licensed technician. To ensure the best results and avoid potential damage, hire a professional contractor. 

4. Condensate Drain Pan   

Now, let’s discuss the condensate drain pan. This crucial component collects water run-off from the evaporator coil as it cools the air. If the drain pan is worn or damaged, it can lead to water leakage on the floor, which underscores the necessity of regular maintenance. 

Fixing this issue is pretty straightforward. If you find yourself in this situation, just replace the old or damaged drain pan with a new one. But be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. If you’re not confident about tackling this task, we’re happy to lend a hand. 

5. Refrigerant 

When your air conditioner’s refrigerant gets low, the pressure inside drops too. This can cause the evaporator coils to freeze, leading to a messy situation. Here are a few signs of low refrigerant to watch out for: 

• Hissing or bubbling sounds from the AC unit 
• Ice on the evaporator coils 
• The AC isn’t blowing cold air 
• Water leakage 

The best way to get this sorted quickly is to call a licensed technician. They have the right refrigerant for your air conditioner and the proper gear to safely refill it. 

6. Condenser   

Did you know your air conditioner can “sweat?” This happens when warm or humid air hits the cool exterior of the AC, causing condensation. This excess moisture can make it look like the unit is leaking.    

While a bit of condensation is no big deal (it happens), if your unit is “sweating” excessively, it’s time to call in a pro ASAP. You definitely don’t want water damage or a busted AC from an issue that’s been brewing for a while. 

Your safety and comfort matter to us! If your air conditioner is leaking water and you can’t figure out why, just give us a call. We’d be happy to help and provide you with our top-notch service. 

You can beat the heat with the help of Upper Arlington Heating & Air. Call today at (614) 490-7507, or schedule an appointment now by clicking here!