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Air conditioners are built to cool down interior spaces. They do so by removing heat from the air. The entire process of evaporation and condensation typically results in water gathering around your AC. While it can be disconcerting at first, the presence of puddle isn’t necessarily a cause for alarm. Before calling for air conditioner repairs, it’s essential to understand why it happens and what you can do about it.

Why It Happens

Air conditioners have a compressor, condenser, and evaporation coils. The cooling process begins when cold refrigerant inside the coils pull warm, humid air from the room. This process results in the evaporation of a refrigerant, converting it into hot gas, which goes through the compressor and condenser. The heat is released outside while the refrigerant condenses back to its liquid state.

During the entire cooling process, moisture forms around the coils and tubes that contain cold refrigerant because of the significant difference in temperatures. Known as condensate, this liquid is typically collected in a pan and can overflow when the drain lines are blocked.  

How to Find Issues

The presence of water around the unit doesn’t mean you have to schedule air conditioner repairs right away. Check the drain lines for blockages, and flush it out as needed. Dirt, dust, mold, and sludge can obstruct the lines. Take time to inspect the condensate pan and look for small cracks on the drainage that may be causing the puddles of water. If yours uses a condensate pump instead of drains, examine the pipes for tears and cracks. Inspect the pump for possible malfunction too—a faulty one won’t be as effective at taking out the moisture and can cause overflowing in the pan.

air conditioner repairSometimes, you can trace excessive condensation to a dirty air filter. It prevents your cooling unit from effectively dehumidifying your space because of obstructed airflow, resulting in excessive sweating on the evaporator coils. Check your filter, and replace it regularly to ensure proper function.

If the problem persists or worsens, call a technician for a diagnosis and air conditioner repairs if needed. It also helps to schedule preventive maintenance before heavy usage to ensure your AC is performing at peak efficiency when you need it most.

 

To ensure that water puddles on your AC aren’t a sign of a bigger problem, get in touch with Independence Mechanical to check it out. As the leading HVAC company in Independence, KY, they provide exceptional air conditioner repairs and maintenance works throughout Kenton County. When you need service for your heating and cooling units, call (859) 756-4099 or request an appointment online.

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