Is Water Dripping From My Air Conditioner Dangerous?

It’s a hot summer day in San Marcos, and your air conditioner is working overtime to keep your home cool. But then, you notice something alarming — water dripping from your AC unit. Is this normal? Should you be worried? While an air conditioner leaking water may seem like a minor issue, it could indicate a larger problem that needs attention. Ignoring the signs of a leak can lead to further damage to your AC system and even your home, so let’s dive into some possible causes.

If you see water dripping from your AC, don’t wait — contact SM Air today for AC repair in San Marcos!

 

Why Is My AC Leaking Water?

There are several reasons why you might see water leaking from your central AC, ductless mini-split, or heat pump:

• Clogged condensate drain line: This is one of the most frequent causes of an AC leaking water. Dirt and debris can block the drain line, causing water to back up and leak out of your system.
• Low refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant causes the evaporator coil to freeze, and when it thaws, water can leak from your system.
• Broken condensate pump: If your system relies on a condensate pump to move water outside, a malfunction could cause water to accumulate and leak.
• Overflowing or faulty drain pan: Your AC’s drain pan catches the condensation that your AC produces, but over time, it can become cracked, rusted, or simply too full.
• Improper installation: Poor installation, especially with ductless mini-splits, can lead to drainage issues that cause water to leak.

Is It Dangerous for My AC To Drip Water?

Yes! While a little water might seem harmless, it can actually lead to bigger problems if not addressed promptly. Water leaks can cause structural damage to your home, ruin ceilings or floors, and promote mold growth. If the water makes contact with electrical components, it could even pose a safety hazard. It’s important to call in the experts at SM Air for expert AC repair to take care of any water leaks before the situation worsens.

Is My AC Leaking Water or Refrigerant?

It’s important to know the difference between a water leak and a refrigerant leak, as they are different issues. As explained above, water leaks occur when condensation doesn’t drain properly. Refrigerant leaks, on the other hand, happen when there is a break in the sealed refrigerant line, which can lead to poor cooling performance or no cooling at all. Refrigerant is also a highly toxic substance that poses a risk to people, pets, and the environment.

So how can you tell the difference? Water leaks are typically just that — water. You may notice a puddle around your AC unit, or dripping. Refrigerant leaks, however, can produce an oily residue around the unit and may be accompanied by hissing or bubbling noises. Low refrigerant can cause poor AC performance, a frozen evaporator coil, or a complete lack of cooling. Like water, refrigerant is clear, so it can be hard to tell the difference. If you’re not sure, it’s best to call a licensed HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Why Choose SM Air?

If you notice your AC leaking water, or anything else, it’s time to contact the professionals at SM Air. With over 35 years of experience, we’ve seen it all, and we know how to fix your system quickly and effectively. Our Maintenance Club keeps your HVAC system in peak condition year-round, preventing issues like water leaks before they happen. Plus, we’re committed to 100% customer satisfaction, offering honest pricing and reliable service you can count on.

Don’t let a small leak turn into a big problem — contact our team for expert AC repair in San Marcos!