Do you see signs of leakage near your air conditioner? Leaks are a common problem with all types of ACs. What causes these leaks, and what can be done to prevent them? Our team of air conditioner installation specialists share the answers here.
Where Does the Water Come From?
Almost all cases of HVAC leaks have something to do with how the unit works. Air goes into the unit and passes into the evaporator coil. As the air cools, water vapor condenses and drips into the drain pan before being directed away through a drain line or hose. Normally, a unit can handle enough condensed water to avoid leaking, but there are certain factors that can cause problems.
Clogged Drain Line
This is the most common cause when it comes to HVAC leaks. Dirt and mold can accumulate in the drain line and clog it. Since water keeps condensing, it eventually fills up the clogged line and the drain pan. After some time, the water will overflow, resulting in a leak. Ductless installation specialists say that this usually happens if the drain line hasn’t been cleaned for several months.
Damaged Drain Pan
Sometimes, the condensate doesn’t even reach the drain line before leaks start occurring. If the drain pan is cracked or rusted, it will develop small holes from which the water can leak. Damaged drain pans need to be replaced ASAP to avoid further problems caused by leaks.
Dirty Filters
According to AC and boiler installation specialists, HVAC units have dust filters over the air intake to reduce the amount of dust that gets into the system. If the filters get completely blocked, the evaporator coil won’t have enough warm air to cool off. This lowers the coil’s temperature enough for frost to develop. After some time, the frost will melt into water, which increases the risk of leaking. This is why filters have to be cleaned more often than the other components.
Prevent HVAC leaks with help from our technicians. Econoair Heating & Cooling Inc. is the leading AC and furnace repair company in the area. You can call us at 905-763-2400 or fill out this contact form to request a quote.