HVAC system leakage can lead to an increased workload, water damage, and high electricity bills. You can fix the leakage problems by unclogging the condensate line, changing the drain pan, and removing the condensation build-up. Also, try defrosting the frozen coils and cleaning the dirty air filters to prevent overload on your HVAC system. If the trouble persists, it is best to contact a professional HVAC service for help. 

    Fixing HVAC System Leaking Water: Top Solutions To Know

    Are you suffering from frequent HVAC system water leakage problems? Here are five must-try solutions to solve your system’s five most common leakage-causing problems.

    • Blocked Condensate Drain

    An HVAC leaking water problem often comes from dirt and debris in the dehumidified moisture. If not cleaned, dirt and debris can build up and obstruct the condensate drain pipe over time. Gradually, water will build up in your unit and pour out of the drain pan into your home. Modern HVAC systems contain a cutoff switch that turns off if the drain tube obstructs.

    Check the drain pan for standing water after turning off your unit to solve the HVAC leak. Empty and clean the drain pan to prevent mold. Also, check the drain line for clogs. Scrub the line with a long wire brush to remove gunk. For severe clogging, you may need a special pump or hoover. To ensure cleanliness, add a little water and make sure it runs smoothly out the opposite end.  

    Regular HVAC maintenance should be a priority for prevention. Use bleach to clean the condensate drain line every six months as part of your maintenance routine. This bleach also removes bacteria and prevents mold. Be careful not to bleach very often, as it can cause rust. 

    • Rusted Drain Pan

    A drain pan collects moisture from your system’s evaporator coils or air handler, sending water to the drain line and outdoors. If the drain pan is damaged or rusty, water will leak instead of entering the drain line. Rusted drains are present in 15-20-year-old HVAC systems. These drain pans can rust and corrode, leaking water.

    To prevent HVAC leakage, seal your cracked drain pans tightly. After cleaning the drain pan, find the cracks with a torch and water. Patch the fractures with a good water-resistant sealant and test the repair by pouring water again. Replace your rusty drain pans. Also, consider that your HVAC needs the right-sized drain pan, not an old one.

    • Condensation

    Your HVAC’s dehumidifying process produces condensation. However, excessive condensation can cause ducts and vents to leak water. Water dripping can harm home insulation, cause air duct molding, and lower interior air quality. Water can leak from air ducts due to clogged ducts, air filters, and drain pumps.

    To prevent this, always insulate ductwork first. Insulated ductwork prevents warm air from reaching chilly ducts. Check for damage to your insulated ducting and consider HVAC repair immediately. Prior insulation of ducts is essential to keep outside air out. Also, insulate your attic, especially if ducting goes through. Properly maintaining your system removes dirt and debris, preventing water leaks.  

    • Freezing Evaporator Coils

    Refrigerant leaks or limited airflow may freeze the evaporator coils in your indoor unit, causing moisture buildup, drain pan overflow, and water leakage.

    The first step is to find and fix the cause of your air conditioner freezing. For this, check air filters, return vents, ducts, and fin coils for airflow blockages. Clean them to improve airflow and fix the freezing problem. If cleaning your AC filters doesn’t work, it may be low on refrigerant. Without enough refrigerant, evaporator coils freeze and generate ice. So, check the refrigerant levels to avoid HVAC system leakage.

    • Air Filters With Debris

    The filthy air filters can freeze evaporator coils, causing leakage problems. Filters mainly maintain the airflow in your vent systems. They trap pollutants and let clean air into your home. However, tiny particles and dust can block these filters over time.  Also, clogged air filters disturb warm airflow. If the refrigerant is not absorbing heat, the evaporator coils will freeze, leading to HVAC leakage problems.

    First, collect the dripping water to avoid floor and wall damage. Then, start cleaning your filters. After cleaning and drying properly, put the filters back in your unit. Cleaning the air filter more often during peak season is always good for your old HVAC systems. You should clean them every two weeks and replace them every three to four months.

    How Do I Find The Leakage In An HVAC System?

    You can try different tests to determine leakage in the HVAC system. Use the bubble test for larger leaks where you fill the selected part with gas. Then, dip it in water and wait for bubbles to appear, indicating a leak. Oil spotting is another method that you can use to find leaks. So, if you see any oil spots in the tubes, joints, or near the system, there is a possibility of leakage to detect. You can also use a sniffer to detect leaking coolant, which is a more precise way.

    Conclusion

    HVAC leakage can compromise the overall efficiency of the system, reducing output. To address this, it is important to find the cause of the leakage and devise appropriate solutions. Clearing the condensate line, dirty filters, and frozen coils will help fix the leakage. Also, make sure to take care of regular HVAC service and maintenance to prevent leakage issues. 

    Leave A Reply