A dripping HVAC is one of the most common problems homeowners face with their units. Dripping air conditioners can damage your home and lead to mold and algae growth, ultimately decreasing the air quality in your home. Why does this happen, and what are the solutions?
Identifying the Problem
A dripping air conditioner can be caused by a myriad of problems. While it is typically a minor problem that can be easily fixed, we advise that you contact a local HVAC professional to do a maintenance check and ensure your unit has not endured extensive damage.
Clogged Drain Line
Your air conditioner’s drain line carries condensate from your unit into the drain pan. Drain lines can become clogged from mold or algae, making it difficult or impossible for condensate to pass through the line. Clogged drain lines can easily leak condensate before it arrives in the drain pan, often puddling around the base of your HVAC unit. To avoid a clogged drain line, consider pouring 6 ounces of vinegar into the line every few months to deter algae or mold growth.
Faulty Drain Pan
Condensate from your unit travels through the drain line into the drain pan. If your drain pan is damaged, rusty, or overflowing, condensate will drip out. Sometimes drain pans will crack due to age, and while you can temporarily fix the crack with water-proof sealant, we advise replacing the drain pan completely. Since drain pans need to be welded in place, we suggest you call your local HVAC professionals to do the installation and conduct a system check while they are repairing the unit.
Clogged Air Filter
It’s important that you change your air filters often, because a clogged air filter can easily block airflow over the evaporator coil. This lack of airflow can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. Once it warms up, the frozen condensate will drip and can overflow in the drain pan, causing water to puddle outside your unit. We suggest switching your air filter every 1-3 months, depending on the climate of your environment.
What to do?
While a dripping air conditioner is often a minor problem, we suggest having an HVAC professional assess your unit for extensive damage and to ensure you are receiving quality airflow inside your home. Scheduling regular maintenance can help prevent these problems. At Carolina Comfort Air, we offer repair and maintenance services to ensure your HVAC unit keeps you comfortable all year long.
Dealing with a dripping air conditioner? Call us today at (919) 367-3818 to see how the experts at Carolina Comfort Air can help solve your problem!