Water leaking from your AC vents can be very frustrating, especially during summers. While small water leaks could typically happen over time, excessive dripping may entail a major problem in the long run. There are several reasons why water leakage occurs. It could be because of dirty air filters, or perhaps incorrect AC installation.
Whatever the cause is, it’s important to know the basics when fixing this troublesome AC issue. if you’d like to use the help of professionals, contact American Home Water and Air today and ask them about their AC repair in Phoenix.
Why is the AC dripping water from the vents?
As mentioned earlier, a small amount of water dripping from your AC could be a normal occurrence. This may be because of a very humid and hot temperature. Plus, condensation follows a fast-paced cycle, resulting in few drops of water from the vents. In typical cases, the excess water just dries up due to the surrounding heat.
However, if the leak is more than usual, then it’s something that you shouldn’t neglect. To further give you an understanding of this common AC problem, below are the main reasons you should take into account.
- Dirty air filter –Unclean filter is one of the reasons why there is excess water on your unit. The primary responsibility of air filters is to block dust and dirt. It ensures only clean air passes through the system and inside your home. And if these unwanted particles are accumulated in the filter, it affects the refrigeration cycle.
A dirty air filter could not easily allow air to enter the unit, resulting in the freezing of evaporator coils. Subsequently, the frozen evaporator coils lead to water leaking from the vent and spilling indoors.
- Incorrect unit installation –Another possible reason for water leakage is due to the incorrect installation of a new AC or a unit that has just been tuned up. There is a great possibility of water spilling if there is a space between the condensate tray and the unit. Or if the drain pipes are exposed, it could also cause water spillage.
- Damaged condensate tray –As a key part of an AC unit, the condensate tray or drip pan serves as an instrument in disposing of water outside. It is also responsible for catching the humidity and excess water from the air that circulates in the system.
Water production happens when the HVAC system cools the air. After which, the refrigerant travels through the evaporator coil, making it very cold and possibly generating excess fluid. Therefore, if the condensate tray is damaged, it could not catch the water from the evaporator coil.
- Blocked drain pipe –Water spilling from your vent may be caused by a blocked drainpipe. This AC component is tasked to carry the water out of the HVAC system. And if there are blockages in these pipes, there will be possible water accumulation and leakage from the unit.
- Insufficient refrigerant –The refrigerant level is a crucial aspect of the HVAC system. If there is not enough of this chemical compound, there is a tendency for the AC pressure to fall. As a result, the evaporator coils may freeze, producing excess water.
How do you stop the AC vent from dripping?
It’s very important to put a stop to or at least slow down the leak to avoid major problems. These are some simple steps you can follow while waiting for the HVAC technician.
- Check the AC filters and make sure to keep them clean
Since dirty air filters cause the evaporator coils to get frozen, regular maintenance of air filters is a must. Make sure that you clean them regularly, ideally every two weeks to prevent the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other harmful particles. You may also replace them quarterly to ensure the upkeep of the air filters.
- Ensure correct installation of the unit.
Misplacement of key parts can possibly cause leakage of water. Therefore, you need to check how the unit is installed. Make sure the parts are stationed properly and there are no gaps between the AC unit and the condensate tray. If you are unsure of the placement of the components, try to get help from an HVAC replacement expert.
- Examine the condensate tray for leaks or blockage.
Having a damaged condensate tray allows water to seep through the unit and leak into your room. Since this is just an exterior component, usually underneath the evaporator coils, it’s easy to examine this and check for possible cracks. The replacement of a damaged drip pan largely depends on the material used and type, so you may need to ask for suggestions from your HVAC technician.
Aside from cracks, clogging of a condensate tray could be another issue. So be sure to clean the pan to avoid build-up and leakage of water, which can significantly damage the HVAC system.
- Clear any blockage on the drain pipes.
Just like condensate trays, drain pipes are stationed outside the AC unit. This gives you convenience in checking possible particles blocking the pipes. Clean the pipes frequently to provide a clear flow of water. On the other hand, an exposed drain pipe could lead to water dripping from the unit. So, keep an eye on the pipe placement and get it fixed if there are issues.
- Ensure enough refrigerant level.
This particular step, however, may not be designed for those without HVAC expertise. Be it known that refrigerant is a working fluid that could be harmful. This chemical compound poses risks not just to your health but also to the environment. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to request assistance from HVAC specialists when it comes to handling this particular AC issue.
A refrigerant leak is a major concern that can give rise to more AC issues in the long run. Hence, it is considered a critical problem that needs an expert’s knowledge. HVAC professionals are adept at stocking up refrigerants in the unit. But before they do that, they first identify the cause of refrigerant insufficiency to prevent recurring concerns.
