Prevent AC Water Damage: Tips from SS&B Heating & Cooling

In Springfield, MO, we are no strangers to the crucial role that air conditioning (AC) units play in our lives, especially during the scorching summer months. One question that often homeowners ask is, "Should my AC be leaking water?"

While water leakage from an AC unit can be a common occurrence, especially during periods of high use, it is vital to differentiate between normal condensation and excessive leakage. This situation may not only indicate an underlying issue with your AC unit but could also potentially lead to water damage in your home’s flooring, ceiling, walls, or foundation.

Understanding AC Units

An air conditioning unit has more functions than simply cooling. It works to condition the air by reducing its humidity levels. The system extracts warm air from your environment, which then passes over the cooler evaporator coil. The moisture present in the air condenses onto the coil, drips into a drain pan, and then exits your home via the condensate drain line.

Normal Water Discharge from your Air Conditioner

Throughout Springfield's sweltering summer season, your AC will be operating more frequently and for longer durations. This heightened usage often results in some water being present near the condensate drain due to increased condensation. However, this should not result in water pooling, which could cause potential water damage over time.

Excessive water leakage may signal several problems:

Blocked Drain Line: Elements like dust, dirt, mold, or algae can obstruct the condensate drain line over time. This obstruction impedes water from draining effectively, leading to a backup and overflow.

Damaged Drain Pan: In older AC units, the drain pan may be corroded or cracked, causing water to leak out and potentially leading to water damage in your home.

Frozen Evaporator Coil: If your AC unit experiences restricted airflow (possibly a dirty filter) or have a low refrigerant level, it could result in a frozen evaporator coil. Once it defrosts, it may produce more water than the drain pan can handle, leading to an overflow.

Inadequate Installation: If the AC unit is improperly installed or isn't level, water could accumulate in the drain pan and overflow, potentially causing water damage in your home.

Recommended Action for Leaking AC

When faced with excessive water leakage from your AC unit, the immediate course of action should be to turn off the system to prevent further damage, especially to nearby electrical components.

Afterward, it's crucial to seek professional help. With a team of seasoned technicians, they can accurately diagnose the problem, provide the most effective solution, and ensure that your AC unit is restored to optimal functionality. In Springfield, MO, SS&B Heating & Cooling is dedicated to delivering excellent heating and cooling services, helping protect your home from potential water damage and ensuring your comfort throughout the year.

If you are in Springfield, MO. area, and need air conditioning services, don't hesitate to contact us. Whether you require routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete system upgrade, we are here to help. our experienced team members will be more than happy to assist you with your needs. We are committed to providing you with prompt, professional, and reliable service for all your air conditioning needs.