Air Conditioner Suddenly Leaks Water: Don’t Rush to Call a Technician – Do It This Way

Air conditioners are a common appliance in most homes, offering comfort during hot weather. However, when an air conditioner suddenly begins leaking water, it can cause panic. Many people instinctively rush to call a technician, which often leads to unnecessary service costs. Before you make that call, there are several simple steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you handle the situation and prevent any extra costs.

Why Does an Air Conditioner Leak Water?

To understand how to fix the issue, it’s important to know why air conditioners leak water in the first place. Typically, air conditioners are designed to cool the air by removing moisture from it. This moisture collects in a drainage pan and is expelled outside through a drain line. If something goes wrong with this system, it can lead to water leakage inside the unit.

Common causes of water leakage include:

1. Clogged Drain Line: Over time, dust, dirt, algae, or mold can build up in the drain line, blocking the water flow.
2. Frozen Coils: If the air conditioner is not cooling properly, the evaporator coils can freeze up. When the coils thaw, the excess water may leak out.
3. Dirty Air Filters: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the evaporator coils to freeze and then thaw, leading to water leakage.
4. Improper Installation or Leveling: If the air conditioner is not level or is improperly installed, water may accumulate in the drainage pan instead of draining outside.

Now that you know the potential causes, let’s go through the steps you can follow to address the issue.

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