Air isn’t the only substance that can come out of an air conditioner. During the summer, you may see puddles form near the condenser unit located outside. This kind of moisture isn’t usually a problem and is just an effect of the equipment’s cooling process. But if you spot water leaking elsewhere, your cooling system might have a problem that requires professional AC repair. If your HVAC system is leaking, below are a few reasons why the problem may be happening and what an air conditioning contractor can do to help.

5 Possible Reasons Your AC Is Leaking

1. Refrigerant Leak

An HVAC system relies on outdoor condenser coils and indoor evaporator coils to release and absorb hot air. Refrigerant runs through the coils to facilitate this process. But if the refrigerant leaks or is too low, the coils may become too cool and freeze. Once this ice melts, you may discover water seeping from your system. In these instances, a contractor can fix this common AC problem by repairing the refrigerant leak and recharging the coolant.

2. Dirty Drain Line

When the AC’s cooling process produces condensation, the resulting moisture is directed through drain lines and collected inside a condensate pan. Over time, these lines may accumulate debris and become clogged. When the condensation has nowhere to go, it can overload the line and cause a leak.

If you can locate the blockage, disconnect the hose and clean it out with a shop vacuum. Once you reattach the clean line, it should flow without leaking.  

3. Clogged Air Filter

Air filters should be replaced every 60 to 90 days to ensure the system can continue removing debris from the HVAC system. Without this routine maintenance, the filter can become clogged with debris, making it harder for air to move. When air doesn’t pass over evaporator coils, they can freeze up. Once they defrost, the excess moisture may cause the condensate pan to spill over.

4. Cool Outdoor Temperatures

If your HVAC system is running late into the fall or on a chilly night in the summer, the lower temperatures may cause the coils to freeze. This extra moisture can overload the drainage system and cause leaks to form. To prevent this kind of problem, leave your air conditioner off once outdoor temperatures reach 60 degrees or below.

5. Cracked Condensate Pan

Check the condensation pan inside the evaporator unit. If this component is cracked, any water that comes from the drain line will leak out. Usually, this broken part can easily be replaced by an air conditioning contractor.

Don’t let leaks complicate your cooling system this summer. Instead, turn to Gulf Coast HVAC for comprehensive AC repairs in Foley, AL. Servicing residential and commercial cooling systems, this Baldwin County air conditioning contractor will quickly pinpoint the source of your leak and provide a reliable fix. Visit this heating and cooling company online to learn more about their capabilities. To request assistance, including 24-hour emergency support, call (251) 955-1054.