There are many reasons why your air conditioner could be leaking, but a few are usually the common culprits. Usually, leaks occur when the air filter gets dirty or when the drain line is clogged with foreign materials.
These situations are sometimes pretty easy to fix, but you need the help of an expert to get the job done properly. Here's a detailed compilation of the main causes of air conditioning leaks and how to deal with them adequately.
Dirty Air Filter
The most common cause of a leaky air conditioner is a dirty air filter. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and create a cascade of issues that might prevent the evaporator coil from working properly. This restriction causes a buildup of frost on the coil, which melts to form water when it thaws.
A dirty air filter is often simple to fix. You can clean or replace your filter yourself with just a few easy steps:
- Turn off the power to the AC at the circuit breaker
- Open the front panel of your unit
- Remove and clean or replace your filter
- Replace the front panel and turn the power back on
If, however, you feel like this task is too complicated for you, enlist the help of a licensed HVAC repair technician. You're guaranteed good quality work and a lasting fix to your AC woes.
Clogged Drain Line
The drain line is what carries excess water away from your AC unit. If it becomes clogged with dirt, algae, mold, or sludge, it will eventually cause water to overflow.
As a rule of thumb, you should unclog your air conditioner's drain line at least a few times a year as a maintenance routine to avoid problems. Here's how:
- Find the drain line. It may be located either outdoors or indoors, depending on your system. The drain line is usually a PVC pipe that runs from the unit to the ground.
- Switch off the power supply. Turn off your air conditioner and cover any exposed electrical parts with duct tape or cardboard.
- Trap leaking water. Find the condensate drain pan under your air conditioner, and place a bucket underneath to catch any water that spills out when you remove the access panel.
Once you're done, remove the access panel on the condensate drain pan and look for debris built up in it. Anything you find that shouldn't be there might be the reason behind the blockage.
Oftentimes, an HVAC repair expert will use a special suction machine to remove blockages from the drain line. This special equipment can effectively remove trapped debris that you might miss. So if you want some peace of mind, hiring an expert is your best bet.
For more information on HVAC repair, contact a professional near you.
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