13 May Common Causes of Aircon Leaking Water and Simple Fixes

Air conditioners are an essential part of our daily lives, especially in hot and humid regions. They cool our homes and provide relief during warm days, but when water begins to leak from the unit, it can cause a lot of headaches. Not only is water leakage unsightly, but it can also damage your home and reduce the efficiency of the aircon. Understanding the common aircon leaking water causes and learning how to fix them can save you from costly repairs and keep your aircon running smoothly for longer.

Let’s explore the main reasons why your aircon might be leaking water and how you can address each one effectively.

 

7 Common Causes of Aircon Leaking Water

Here are some common causes of aircon leaking water that you might experience at home or in the office, along with quick fixes to help you solve them.

1. Clogged or Dirty Aircon Drain Line

One of the common aircon leaking water causes is a clogged or dirty aircon drain line. Air conditioners naturally generate moisture as the air is cooled, which is typically directed into a drainage system to be expelled outside the unit. However, over time, dust, debris, mold, algae, and other contaminants can accumulate, blocking the drain line and obstructing the flow of water. When this happens, the water may back up, leaking inside the unit or onto the floor, as the system struggles to efficiently remove the moisture. This not only causes water leakage but also creates an environment for mold growth, leading to further damage and potential issues with your air conditioner.

 

Signs: 

• Water pooling around the aircon unit or inside the unit.
• Musty or damp odors due to mold or mildew.

 

Simple Fixes for a Clogged or Dirty Aircon Drain Line:

To fix this, you can clean the drain line by using a wet/dry vacuum to suction out the debris. Another option is to use a pipe cleaner or a long brush to clear out the line. You can also pour a solution of water and vinegar down the drain line to help prevent mold and algae build-up.

 

2. Frozen Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil in your air conditioner plays a crucial role in absorbing heat and moisture from the air inside your home. However, when this coil freezes, it can disrupt the entire system. Freezing can happen due to inadequate airflow, low refrigerant levels, or dirty air filters. As the coil thaws, the excess water drips out, causing leaks. This frozen coil not only reduces the cooling efficiency of your aircon but also leads to water leakage as the ice melts, which can pool on the floor or inside the unit. Over time, this can cause significant damage to the unit’s components, affecting its performance and longevity.

 

Signs: 

• Ice build-up on the evaporator coil (usually visible when you open the front panel of the air conditioner).
• Weak or warm air being blown from the aircon because when the coil freezes, it disrupts the normal heat exchange process.

 

Simple Fixes for a Frozen Evaporator Coil:

If the evaporator coil is frozen, the first thing to do is turn off the aircon and let it thaw. Check the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty, as this could be blocking airflow to the evaporator coil. Additionally, ensure that the vents in the room are not obstructed by furniture or curtains. If low refrigerant is the cause of freezing, you’ll need a professional technician from the air conditioning servicing company in Singapore to refill the refrigerant.

 

3. Poor Installation or Misalignment

Proper installation is crucial for the effective functioning of an air conditioner. If the unit is not installed at the correct angle or level, it can lead to drainage problems and water leakage. For example, improper alignment or poor drainage setup may prevent water from flowing out through the designated channels, causing it to leak inside or around the unit instead.

 

Signs:

• Water leaking from unusual places on the aircon.
• Pooling water around the base or floor of the unit.
• Unusual noises that may indicate a misaligned pump or drainage system.

 

Simple Fixes for Poor Installation or Misalignment Problems:

You can check yourself if the aircon isn’t properly aligned. For example, if the unit appears tilted. If so, it’s important to call a professional technician to re-install the unit. Proper installation ensures correct water drainage and helps the system operate as efficiently as possible.

 

4. Low Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels can have a significant impact on the performance of your air conditioner. Refrigerant is responsible for absorbing and releasing heat from the air, and when the levels are low, the evaporator coils can freeze. This, in turn, leads to excess condensation that may leak out as water when the ice melts.

 

Signs:

• Reduced cooling performance from the aircon.
• Ice build-up on the evaporator coils.
• Excessive water leakage around the unit.

 

Simple Fixes for Low Refrigerant Levels:

If your refrigerant levels are low, it’s best to seek a professional aircon leaking service to help inspect and refill the refrigerant. This is not a DIY fix, as improper handling of refrigerants can be hazardous and cause damage to the unit.

 

5. Broken Pump or Faulty Drain Pan

The drain pan collects water that drips from the evaporator coil, and the pump ensures that the water is directed away from the unit. If either of these components fails or is damaged, the water won’t be removed as intended, and you’ll notice leaks.

 

Signs:

• Water accumulates around the air handler.
• Leaks coming from the base of the aircon.
• The unit fails to drain properly.

 

Simple Fix for Broken Pump or Faulty Drain Pan:

If the drain pan is cracked or the pump is malfunctioning, you’ll need to replace the faulty parts. You can buy the aircon parts from trusted suppliers or specialized stores to ensure you get quality components. If you’re not comfortable performing the replacement yourself, a professional technician can assist you in replacing and installing the new parts with expertise.

 

6. Dirty Air Filters

Air filters play a vital role in trapping dust and debris, preventing them from entering the aircon’s internal components. When the filters become clogged with dirt and dust, the airflow is restricted, which can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. As the ice melts, it leads to water leakage.

 

Signs:

• Reduced airflow or warm air from the aircon.
• Water pooling around the unit.
• Noticeable frost on the evaporator coil.

 

Simple Fix for Dirty Air Filters:

This is a very simple fix. You can regularly clean or replace the air filters to maintain proper airflow. It is recommended to clean or replace them every 1 to 3 months depending on usage.

 

7. High Humidity and Overuse

Another common aircon leaking water cause is high humidity and overuse. In areas with high humidity, air conditioners work harder to remove moisture from the air. When there’s more moisture than usual, your aircon can struggle to manage it, leading to excess condensation and water leakage.

 

Signs:

• Excessive water pooling around the unit.
• The aircon runs constantly without achieving the desired cooling effect.

 

Simple Fix for High Humidity and Overuse:

To reduce the impact of high humidity, try using a dehumidifier together with your aircon. Also, avoid running the aircon for extended periods by setting a comfortable temperature and using energy-saving modes. When overworked during humid periods, the unit not only struggles to cool effectively but also suffers a shorter lifespan.

 

Conclusion

Water leakage from your air conditioner can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge, you can prevent most issues from becoming major problems. By understanding these aircon leaking water causes from clogged drain lines to frozen coils and faulty components, you can address the problem quickly and effectively. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and prompt repairs are key to ensuring your aircon stays in top condition and provides reliable cooling year-round.

 

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Jiaxing Aircon Leaking Service You Can Trust

If the problem persists or feels beyond your control, it’s best to contact a professional technician to prevent further damage to your system. Jiaxing is a trusted aircon servicing company in Singapore, offering a one-stop solution for both residential and commercial air conditioning needs. For added convenience, the company provides same day aircon service for urgent cases.

In addition to servicing, Jiaxing also sells cheap aircon units in Singapore, making it easy and affordable for customers to upgrade or replace their systems. Whether you’re looking for aircon installation, repair, maintenance, or chemical overhaul, our team provides reliable, cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs.

By addressing aircon issues early and choosing the right unit for your space, you can extend the lifespan of your system and enjoy a cooler, more comfortable environment all year round.