Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water Outside? Common Reasons for Outdoor AC Unit Water Leaks

The AC usually works non-stop in Canada in summer, as some areas get extremely hot here. However, this overload may bring unwanted consequences. A water leak is one of these. If you spot water under the AC unit outside, is it an alarming sign? Actually, should AC drip water outside? Yes, but it is fine until the leaking is too excessive. There is nothing to worry about if you see just a tiny puddle of water that quickly dries up on a hot day. However, if the water leak persists for several days or more, you need to act. Let’s dig deeper into why and how to eliminate this issue.

Are air conditioners supposed to leak water?

Air conditioners produce some condensation as they operate. It is absolutely normal for a small amount of water to collect and drain away from the unit. How does the condensation process happen? Warm air gets into the AC, passes over the evaporator coils, and cools down due to the refrigerant inside. This cooling causes the moisture in the air to condense and form water droplets on the coils. The condensed water drips off the coils into a pan or drainage system, where it is collected and typically expelled outside or into a drain. However, if you notice excessive or unusual water leaks from your air conditioner, it could indicate a problem that requires attention.

Why is your AC leaking?

Unfortunately, there are many reasons for AC leaks beyond condensation. Here are the most common ones:

Dirty air filters. When air filters are clogged with dust, dirt, or pet hair, airflow through the system is restricted. This makes the AC unit work harder to cool your home and produces excessive condensation, which the drain system can not efficiently handle. Clean or replace filters regularly to avoid this issue and improve the system’s performance.

Blocked drain pipe. Dirt, algae, or debris can build up in the condensate drain pipe over time. If this happens, water cannot flow out as it should, creating leaks around the unit. To keep the drain pipe clear and prevent blockages, flush it periodically with a solution like vinegar.

Faulty condensate pan. The condensate pan, which collects water dripping from the evaporator coil, can develop cracks or rust over time, especially in older systems. When this happens, water escapes through the damaged areas and causes leaks. In this case, you may need to replace the pan to restore proper functionality.

Low refrigerant levels. When refrigerant levels drop, the evaporator coil can become excessively cold and even freeze. As the ice melts, it can create a water leak around your unit. Additional signs of low refrigerant are hissing or gurgling noises and a noticeable drop in cooling results. Schedule a professional HVAC technician to inspect your system before the cooling season begins.

Improper AC installation. Incorrect installation can cause your AC to sit unevenly, which makes it harder for water to drain properly. This can lead to water pooling and eventually leaking. Additionally, poor airflow caused by incorrect setup can create too much condensation inside the unit, leading to similar issues.

How to fix air conditioner leaking water outside?

If your outdoor air conditioner is leaking water, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Here’s what you can do:

• Inspect the drain line. Find the small hose connected to the unit. Check if there are no blockages like dirt or algae and flush it out with a garden hose. Make sure the line isn’t bent or kinked, as this can block proper water flow.
• Clean the drain pan. Don’t miss a clogged or dirty drain pan. Clean it with a mild soap solution, then rinse it thoroughly to remove debris.
• Look for damage. Examine the unit for cracks or damage in the drain pan or other components that might be causing leaks.

These steps can help stop leaks and keep your AC running efficiently. Additionally, don’t forget about regular AC inspections, even if everything works flawlessly.

Call Panda Home Comfort for professional help.

Is it normal for the AC to drip water outside? If you are puzzled, now you know the response. You are even armed with tips on how to fix this problem on your own. However, it will not always be possible to diagnose the reason for the leak and eliminate it correctly. In such a situation, contact our HVAC team. At Panda Home Comfort, we know all the ins and outs of AC systems and will solve yours with no delay, too! Contact us today to schedule a checkup!