Why Does One of My Air Conditioning Units Keep Leaking?

Water dripping from an air conditioner is typically due to condensation. When warm air passes over the cold evaporator coils inside the unit, moisture in the air condenses into water droplets. Normally, this water is collected in a drip pan and drained away. However, if the drainage system is clogged or the drip pan is damaged, water can overflow and drip. Additionally, excessively humid conditions can exacerbate this issue. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the drainage system and replacing filters, can help prevent this problem.

Understanding Humidity and Latent Heat

It's important to understand that humidity from the conditioned space is often referred to as latent heat. This heat is extracted before the sensible heat (the temperature) is removed. As you cool the air, its ability to hold moisture decreases significantly. That's why warm air is used to dry things — it holds a lot more moisture and causes it to evaporate more readily.

Common Causes of Leaks

Water dripping from an air conditioner can be a sign of several issues beyond condensation. Excess leakage could indicate: A clogged drain line Improper installation Dirty air filters Refrigerant leaks Damaged drain lines

Prompt attention and potential professional assistance are necessary to address the problem and prevent damage. The evaporator coil condenses water out of the air as you cool it, and this condensate needs a reliable way to be discharged outside of the building.

Solving the Problem

Large central air conditioners in homes and offices have collection pans that run directly off to the sanitary drains for disposal. You shouldn't normally see this unless there's a problem. If you do see water dripping or notice wet spots in your house, it could indicate that the pan is leaking or the drain is plugged with mold and slime. You’ll need to get it repaired and/or cleaned immediately. I would advise you to turn off the AC to prevent further water damage until the issue is resolved.

Regular maintenance, like cleaning the drain lines and filters, can prevent this issue from arising. During hot, humid weather, these checks are crucial to ensure that your air conditioning system operates efficiently and without leaks.