A leaking air conditioner isn’t a mystery, considering how much water your central A/C produces on a humid Ohio summer day. The evaporator coil inside the indoor air handler can extract over 20 gallons of condensate every day. If the system properly collects the water in the condensate drip pan, then diverts it into a fully functional drain line connected to your household sewer, air conditioner leakage isn’t an issue. However, if problems develop anywhere along the way, spillage and substantial water damage can happen rapidly, before it’s even noticed.
In order of likelihood, here are three potential causes of a leaking air conditioner.
Clogged drain line — Algae or mold growth in the wet, warm environment of the drip pan may clog the drain line that carries condensate to the sewer. An overflowing drip pan is the immediate result. A qualified HVAC service tech can disinfect the drip pan and blow out the drain line to restore proper drainage function. He can also install a time-release algaecide dispenser in the drip pan to prevent recurrence of algae and mold growth for the entire season.
Drip pan leaks or other issues — Over the years, a plastic air handler drip pan may split or develop other leaks, spilling condensate water out onto the floor. Subjected to continuous vibration from the blower fan, the drip pan may also gradually become dislodged out of place and no longer properly catch condensate—another cause of water damage. A full inspection will reveal these issues for replacement or repair.
Coil icing — System malfunctions like low refrigerant level or insufficient airflow may cause ice to form on the indoor evaporator coil. As the accumulation of ice enlarges, it may extend beyond the limits of the drip pan beneath. When the system cycles off, the ice rapidly melts and water spillage may appear around the air handler. Coil icing issues are serious and require attention ASAP by an HVAC technician with the specialized expertise and equipment to properly diagnose and repair the problem.
For professional service to resolve leaking air conditioner issues, in Dayton contact Ace Hardware Home Services.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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