Why does my AC Leak Water?
A water leak can be frustrating, but when your AC leaks water, you may be surprised. It’s easy to use your thermostat to turn the unit on or off. However, many homeowners are unaware of the role that an air conditioner plays in humidity control. As a result, the presence of water may raise concerns. The location of the water determines the need for action.
Your AC Unit as a Dehumidifier
When your air conditioner or heat pump is cooling your home, refrigerant plays a primary role in the cooling activity. As it moves through the coils, it undergoes different pressure conditions. At the indoor evaporator coil, the material is able to expand, becoming icy cold. A heat exchange between the material and the indoor air causes the air to cool for circulation throughout your house. Meanwhile, moisture in the air condenses on the cold coil. As water accumulates, it drips into a drain pan and is funneled out of your home by a drain line.
If you notice water coming out of the drain pipe outside of your home, your system is functioning normally. Your concern over the condition is warranted if you find water pooling or seeping near your indoor unit. A clog in the drain line could lead to the condensate water backing up and spilling out of the pan.
What to Do About a Clogged Drain Line
It’s important to deal with the drain line right away so that you don’t experience serious water damage inside your home. Additionally, some modern AC units include floats at the openings to their drain lines. These floats are connected to switches that can interrupt air conditioner operation. Too much water may lead to your unit not functioning. If you can identify the exit pipe for your drain, you can attempt to remove material and excess water with a wet vacuum. However, if you aren’t sure of the location or don’t own a wet vacuum, you can get help from an HVAC technician.
Tune-Up Solutions
One of the best ways to have your drain cleaned thoroughly is by scheduling a tune-up. In addition to cleaning of the condensate pan and drain line, your technician will make a thorough inspection of your equipment. Appropriate adjustments are made, coils are cleaned and controls are tested. While most instances of air conditioners leaking water are related to the drains, there can be other technical issues at work. An annual tune-up ensures that your lines are clean and that your equipment is optimized. Our Florida climate promotes the growth of algae and bacteria in the drain pan and line, and scheduled maintenance can address this issue before it becomes a problem.
If you need assistance with your clogged drain line, Custom Air Heating & Cooling can come out to your Sarasota, FL home to provide the necessary service. Contact us to discuss your specific issues and schedule an appointment. We provide efficient service, and we are available for emergencies on a 24-hour basis.