If you’ve ever seen a window air conditioner, you probably noticed that it often gives off a certain amount of water while it’s operating. But did you know your central air conditioner produces water as well? If that water is not drained properly, it could damage your system and your home. So what are some of the common reasons for a central air conditioner leaking water and what can you do to protect yours from water damage?
Potential reasons for a central air conditioner leaking water
As mentioned above, water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Much like the way water drips down the side of a glass of ice water when you take it outside, your air conditioner’s evaporator coils give off condensation when they remove moisture from the air.
When your air conditioner is running properly, the water that it pulls from your home’s air is drained down a tube called the condensate pipe and led out of your home. If something goes wrong with the condensate pipe or the draining system, it could lead to water buildup around your unit. Some potential water problems include:
- Condensate pipe or drain is clogged. The water that drains out of your air conditioner can contain dirt and other particles from your home’s air. Standing water in the condensate pipe or drain can also lead to algae growth. If any of this happens, it can clog up your air conditioner’s draining system and lead to water damage. Make sure to change your air filter regularly to minimize the amount of particles that get into the water and contact a professional like Jerry Kelly if you have a clog.
- Leak in drain hose. Another common water problem with central air conditioners is that the drain hose or condensate pipe is cracked or leaking. Be careful not to move any objects around the unit that could puncture the drain hose and contact a professional if you notice a leak.
- Condensation from high humidity. Natural condensation can also build up on your air conditioner or basement pipes if the humidity is too high in your home. If high humidity is a problem in your home, consider installing a whole house dehumidifier to keep your home’s humidity levels under control.
If you have any questions about your central air conditioner leaking water, or if you’d like a cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Jerry Kelly, your St. Louis area HVAC company.
