30 Dec Common Installation Mistakes That Cause New Aircon to Leak Water

Many homeowners assume that water leakage only happens with old or poorly maintained air conditioners. In reality, it is not uncommon for a brand-new aircon to start leaking water within weeks or even days after installation. This situation can be frustrating, especially when you expect a new unit to work perfectly.

In most cases, the problem is not the aircon itself. The real cause usually lies in installation mistakes that affect how condensation water flows out of the system. Understanding these common issues helps homeowners identify early warning signs and avoid unnecessary damage to walls, ceilings, or flooring.

Common Installation Mistakes That Cause New Aircon to Leak Water

1. Improper Drainage Pipe Slope

The drainage pipe plays a critical role in removing condensation water from the indoor unit. It relies entirely on gravity to work properly. If the pipe is installed with an incorrect slope, water will not flow out smoothly.

When the slope is too flat or angled upwards at certain points, water can accumulate inside the unit. Over time, this excess water has nowhere to go and starts dripping indoors. This mistake often happens when installers rush the piping work or fail to properly test water flow after installation.

2. Poor Drainage Pipe Connection

Another common issue is a poorly connected drainage pipe. If the joints are loose, misaligned, or not securely fitted, water can leak out before it even reaches the outlet.

These leaks may not be obvious at first. Some homeowners only notice water stains on the wall or dripping after several hours of aircon usage. Small connection issues can gradually worsen, especially when the system runs for long periods each day.

3. Drainage Pipe Blocked During Installation

Many people are surprised to learn that a drainage pipe can be blocked even when the aircon is brand new. During installation, debris such as dust, insulation material, tape residue, or plastic fragments can accidentally enter the pipe.

Because the blockage starts small, water drainage becomes slower rather than stopping completely. This causes water to back up inside the unit and eventually overflow. Since the system is new, homeowners often do not suspect a blockage until leakage becomes frequent.

4. Indoor Unit Not Properly Levelled

The indoor unit must be installed at a precise level with a slight tilt towards the drainage outlet. Even a small imbalance can disrupt the natural flow of water.

If the unit is tilted incorrectly, condensation water may pool on one side of the drainage tray instead of flowing out. Over time, this pooling leads to water spilling out from the front or sides of the aircon. Visual alignment alone is not enough. Proper levelling tools and experience are required to get this right.

5. Incorrect Insulation on Copper Pipes

Aircon leaking water is not always caused by drainage issues. In some cases, what appears to be leakage is actually condensation forming on poorly insulated copper pipes.

When insulation is thin, incomplete, or loosely wrapped, cold pipes are exposed to warm air. This creates condensation, which drips down and looks very similar to a leaking unit. Many homeowners misinterpret this as a serious fault when it is actually an installation oversight that can be fixed quickly if addressed early.

6. Drainage Pipe Length or Routing Issues

Long drainage pipes or pipes with too many bends can slow down water flow. While a longer route may look neat or convenient during installation, it increases the risk of water stagnation.

Sharp bends, unnecessary loops, or horizontal stretches make it harder for condensation water to exit efficiently. Over time, this can lead to partial blockages and indoor dripping. Good installation planning balances appearance with proper drainage function.

When Is Water Leakage a Serious Problem?

Not all aircon water leakage indicates a major issue, but some signs should never be ignored. If water leaks continuously, causes visible ceiling stains, produces unusual smells, or drips near electrical points, it should be addressed immediately.

Persistent leakage can damage internal components, weaken wall structures, and increase the risk of electrical hazards. Early inspection prevents small installation issues from turning into costly repairs.

Do Not Choose an Unprofessional Aircon Contractor

Many water leakage problems can be traced back to poor installation standards rather than faulty equipment. Choosing an unprofessional contractor may save money upfront, but it often leads to recurring issues and repeated repair costs.

A reliable installer takes time to plan piping routes, ensure proper levelling, test drainage flow, and explain post-installation care. These details make a significant difference in long-term performance and peace of mind.

Conclusion

A new aircon leaking water does not mean the unit is defective. In most cases, the cause is linked to aircon installation mistakes that affect drainage, levelling, or insulation. The good news is that these issues are usually fixable once identified correctly.

By understanding common installation errors, homeowners can make informed decisions, spot problems early, and avoid unnecessary damage to their homes.

Professional Inspection for Aircon Water Leakage Issues

If your new aircon is leaking water and you are unsure whether the issue is installation-related, getting a professional inspection early can save time and cost. A proper check helps identify the root cause before the problem worsens and ensures your aircon operates smoothly as it should. Contact Jiaxing Aircon now!