It is always a hassle when your AC malfunctions. A broken cooling system means that you are left feeling hot and sticky especially now that the scorching summer heat is upon us. It is only when this happens that you realize how much you rely on our air conditioner to keep you cool and comfortable. One of the most common air conditioning malfunctions experienced by homeowners is water leakage from their A/C unit.
To ensure that your air conditioner is in tiptop shape, call Skylands Energy. Our heating and cooling technicians have the knowledge and expertise to help you with all your HVAC issues. We guarantee fast and reliable services that fit your budget. Get your free estimate by contacting our office today.
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Water leaking from your AC causes more than just puddles in your home. It can produce a tremendous amount of damage in your home if left unchecked. In this article, we will take a look at five of the most common causes for A/C water leakage and how to repair them.
Cause #1: Clogged Condensate Drain Line
The condensate drain plays an essential role in your air conditioning system. It is responsible for removing the condensation produced by your A/C’s evaporator coil. Dirt and dust can accumulate along the drain pipe’s walls. If this is not cleaned correctly, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and algae to grow. The mold growth can clog the drain. Because the condensation cannot pass through the drain line, the water leaks out of your air conditioner instead. This situation also leads to elevated humidity and musty odors inside your home.
There are a couple of unclogging methods to free the drain line from the blockages. For example, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to clean your AC condensate drain. The most guaranteed way to clean it is to call your trusted heating and cooling technician. Professional local HVAC contractors have the right tools and expertise needed to clean the drain line thoroughly.
Cause #2: Drain Pan Damage
The drain pan is the basin under your A/C’s evaporator coil that catches the water that drips off from this coil. The drain line connects to the drain pan where it directs the water out of the system. Unfortunately, cracks and holes can develop in your AC’s drain pan, especially if your unit is over ten years old. Corrosion in the drip pan happens naturally over time or when something comes in contact with the pan. These cracks and holes cause water to leak out and potentially damage your air conditioner.
The best way to make sure that there are no holes or cracks in the drain pan is to schedule regular AC routine maintenance. An HVAC contractor can check it if there is any damage in your drain pan. If this is the case, a professional tech can replace it with a new one.
Cause #3: Broken Pump
The condensate pump is designed to pump and lift water from the drain pan to a floor drain or a utility sink. However, water isn’t pumped out of your home when the pump breaks. Contact an HVAC technician to assess the damage and repair or replace the broken pump. You can search for “residential HVAC contractors near me” to find the best one in your area.
Cause #4: Blocked Air Filter
The air filter in your AC traps any contaminants from getting inside your home. This buildup on the air filter only gets denser as time passes. When the air filter is dirty, it blocks the airflow, and the warm air cannot pass through. Without warm air blowing over it, the evaporator coil gets too cold and freezes over. Ice forms in the surface of the coil. When it melts, the water leaks out of the A/C.
This issue is an easily preventable problem. All you need to do is have routine checks to see whether or not your AC’s air filter is dirty. Replace the filters when necessary. If you live in a particularly dusty area or if you have a furry pet at home, you might have to replace the air filters more often.
Cause #5: Low Refrigerant Level
The refrigerant is the coolant used in your air conditioner’s refrigeration cycle. There are a few indications you’ll notice on your AC if your refrigerant is low. One of the indicators is that your AC isn’t cooling your house well. Also, there could be a refrigerant leak if you hear a hissing sound from inside your A/C.
When the refrigerant level is low, the evaporator coil will form ice around it. The ice will eventually melt, and the excess water will leak out of your cooling system. If you suspect that this is the case, you need to call an HVAC contractor to repair this right away. If possible, have an EPA-certified technician do the job as they specialize in handling refrigerants. Licensed HVAC technicians all have this certification. You can find the most reputable HVAC companies in your area by searching for “best HVAC contractors near me”.
Conclusion
Large amounts of water leakage from your air conditioning system is not normal. Make sure that you contact only the best heating and cooling technicians when looking for “HVAC companies near me”. Check the HVAC contractor reviews to ensure that they offer fast and reliable home air conditioning repairs.
Contact Skylands Energy for expert HVAC services. We guarantee that the NATE certified technicians in our team have ample experience and training. They have the necessary skills to provide high-quality service at affordable prices. Our friendly and professional technicians assure you that their visit will be a pleasant experience for you. Call now and schedule a free estimate today.
Some of the areas we service include Bridgewater, Martinsville, Raritan, Somerville, and these zip codes: 08807, 08836, 08869, 08876, as well as all surrounding areas in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!