What to Do When Your AC is Leaking Water

Why Is My AC Leaking Water?

A leaking air conditioner is a common problem that can cause water damage, reduced cooling efficiency, and potential system failure. If you’ve noticed water pooling around your AC unit, it’s important to act quickly. At Big Air AC, we help homeowners in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, and surrounding areas diagnose and fix AC leaks before they become major issues.

Common Causes of AC Water Leaks

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

The most common reason for an AC leak is a clogged drain line. Over time, dirt, dust, and mold can block the line, causing water to back up and overflow.

• Symptoms: Water pooling around the indoor unit, musty odors

• What You Can Do:

  • Locate the drain line (usually a PVC pipe near the indoor unit)

  • Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove debris

  • Pour a mixture of vinegar and water into the drain line to prevent clogs

2. Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coil

A dirty evaporator coil can cause condensation buildup, leading to leaks. If the coil is frozen, it can melt suddenly, overwhelming the drain system.

• Symptoms: Ice on the refrigerant lines, poor cooling performance

• What You Can Do:

  • Turn off the AC to allow the ice to melt

  • Check and replace the air filter

  • If the issue persists, call Big Air AC for a professional cleaning

3. Damaged or Disconnected Drain Pan

The drain pan collects condensation and directs it to the drain line. If it’s cracked or misaligned, water can leak onto the floor.

• Symptoms: Water pooling directly under the unit, rust or cracks in the pan

• What You Can Do:

  • Inspect the drain pan for visible damage

  • If cracked, a technician may need to replace it

4. Low Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant can cause the evaporator coil to freeze and then thaw suddenly, creating excess water.

• Symptoms: Warm air from vents, hissing sounds near refrigerant lines

• What You Can Do:

  • Look for ice buildup on the unit

  • Call a professional—only licensed technicians can check and refill refrigerant

How to Prevent AC Water Leaks

To avoid future water leaks, follow these maintenance steps:

1. Change air filters regularly (every 1-3 months) to maintain proper airflow.

2. Flush the condensate drain line with vinegar every few months to prevent buildup.

3. Schedule annual AC maintenance with Big Air AC to ensure your system is running efficiently.

   
   

Call Big Air AC for Fast, Reliable Repairs

If your AC is leaking water, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Big Air AC offers same-day service to diagnose and fix leaks quickly. Our knowledgeable technicians provide detailed inspections with photos, upfront pricing, and top-rated service.

📞 Call us today at (239) 738-1344 or visit BigAirAC.com to schedule an appointment!