It is completely normal to notice a small amount of water leaking as your air conditioner is operating. However, if you notice that there is a considerable amount of moisture, there is likely a problem somewhere that requires an inspection from a professional AC repair service. Keep reading to learn about a few things that may cause your AC unit to leak water.

Dirty Air Filters

As the air filter in your air conditioner gets clogged or obstructed by dust, dirt, and other particles, it can prevent the proper amount of airflow from reaching the evaporator coils. This type of issue can result in them freezing over as it gets too cold. Once the frost melts, additional moisture may form and enter the condensate pan. The additional water in the pan may cause abnormal leaking. This can be avoided by periodically inspecting the filter and changing it every few months at a minimum.

Clogged Drain Line

Water from the AC unit passes through the condensate line, which is also known as the drain line, prior to ending up in the drain pan. In the event that the pipes end up clogged with dirt, mold, or algae, backed-up water may leak into your home from the unit. To remedy this issue, it is possible to use a wet/dry vacuum to unclog the line. However, it is recommended that you allow the professionals to handle this job since they have the equipment and expertise to safely remove the material that is blocking the drain pipe.

Low Refrigerant Level

When the refrigerant in your air conditioner gets low, it can cause the pressure to get low as well. Similar to the way a dirty air filter works, low refrigerant levels can cause your evaporator coils to freeze, resulting in the drain pan overflowing as soon as the frost starts to melt. You will want to keep an eye out for signs that your system is low on refrigerant. These signs may include a hissing or bubbling noise due to a leak or a unit that isn't cooling as well as it normally does. If the leak is bad enough, your entire unit may need to be replaced. Get in touch with an AC repair service to have a technician come out to diagnose the problem and offer treatment solutions.

If your air conditioning unit is leaking water, it is important to contact an AC service in your area for help.