GUIDES · AIR CONDITIONING
AC Leaking Water Inside? Why It Happens and How to Stop It
An air conditioner removes a lot of water from humid South Florida air. When that water cannot drain, it ends up on the floor, in the ceiling, or in the unit below. The good news: most leaks come from a few fixable causes.
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Do this right away
- Turn the system off at the thermostat to stop producing more water
- Dry the area and move anything that can be damaged
- If the leak is near electrical parts or the ceiling is sagging, turn off the breaker and call
The most common causes
- Clogged condensate drain line: algae and dirt grow in the line in our humidity and block it; this is the number one cause
- Cracked or rusted drain pan: older pans corrode and let water through
- Frozen coil: when it melts, it releases more water than the pan can handle
- Failed float switch or condensate pump: the safety that should shut the system off did not work
How to prevent it
Clearing and treating the drain line during regular maintenance prevents most leaks. Some homeowners also pour a cup of white vinegar into the drain access every few months. A float switch that shuts the system off when the pan fills is inexpensive protection, especially in condos.
What it costs
Clearing a clogged drain or fixing a leak typically costs $175 to $325 in Miami-Dade. A tune-up that includes the drain line is $119 to $169.
Need help with this?
When the air conditioner stops cooling, we find the cause, show you the readings, and give you a clear price before any repair begins. Service in English and Spanish.
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