Why Is My AC Leaking Water?

Air conditioners remove moisture from indoor air, so water is part of normal operation. It should be collected and drained where the system is designed to send it. Water appearing around indoor equipment is not normal.

What may be happening?

Possible causes include a condensate drainage problem, an overflowing drain pan, ice forming on the system, or another HVAC or drainage issue.

Look for ice

If accessible equipment or lines are visibly iced, don't chip the ice off. Ice is a symptom of an airflow or cooling-system problem, and removing it doesn't fix the cause.

Protect the house

Water can damage ceilings, walls, flooring, cabinets, and insulation. If water is actively spreading, deal with the moisture promptly.

Be careful around electricity

Water and electrical equipment don't mix. Don't remove electrical covers or reach into wet HVAC equipment.

When should I call?

Professional help makes sense when:

• Water keeps returning.
• A drain repeatedly backs up.
• Ice is present.
• Water is near electrical components.
• A ceiling or wall is getting wet.
• You can't identify the source.

For an active HVAC water problem: Find Local HVAC Help