Summer is close and that means it’s time to turn on the air conditioner! But what happens if you turn it on and instead of cold air, you find yourself with a wet floor? Don’t worry – in this blog post, we’ll tell you exactly what to do if your air conditioner is leaking water. So, if you’re stuck in a sticky situation, keep reading and maybe we can help you out!
Identifying the Source of the Leak

In order to properly repair a leaking air conditioner, it is important to first identify the source of the leak. There are several possible sources for an air conditioner leak, and these sources must be identified in order to complete the repair correctly. Common sources of water leaks include cracks in the system’s condensate drain pipe, a drainage line that is blocked or clogged, or a failing evaporator coil. If a crack is found, replace it immediately with an epoxy putty that can be purchased from a home improvement store.
If the blockage is determined to be caused by debris or something other than an epoxy putty repair kit, use a wet/dry vacuum to suction away any particles causing the blockage from within the drain line. Lastly, if you think your evaporator coil may be failing and causing your AC to leak water, carefully inspect it according to the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
Cleaning Up and Preventing Future Leaks
Depending on where the leak is coming from and how much water has been spilled, you may need to take different steps.
If the area around it is wet due to a small leak or condensation build-up, you can use a mop, sponge, or towel to soak up any standing water. It’s important to dry out surfaces as soon as possible to avoid mold growth. Additionally, using a mild detergent and a soft brush can help remove any remaining stains or residue left behind by spills.
When dealing with a more serious leak that requires extensive cleanup, it’s recommended that you contact a professional HVAC technician for assistance. The technician can properly assess the cause of the leak and offer helpful advice on how best to clean up and prevent future leakage issues. You may also consider having your air conditioner professionally serviced to ensure everything is in proper working condition before putting it back into use again.
By regularly checking your AC for signs of damage or wear and tear, along with regular maintenance services, you can avoid costly repairs in the future and reduce the likelihood of recurring leaks in your home.
Inspecting the Air Conditioner for Damage

If your AC is leaking water, you should first check for visible damage. Look for any signs of cracks or moisture build-up in the unit itself and its components. If none can be found, the next step is to clean the drain line. Check out our helpful tips below to get started:
- Inspect all electrical connections in the unit for frayed/loose wiring and fix if necessary.
- Check the evaporator coil to ensure that it is not blocked by dust, debris, or other particles and clean if necessary.
- Clear away leaves or other debris from around the outdoor unit as well as nearby outdoor piping that may be blocking airflow.
- Inspect the condensate pan to ensure it is not damaged or full of standing water and seal any cracks using a durable sealant.
- Check and/or clean any filters within your air conditioning system (usually located near your furnace). If they are clogged with dirt, dust, or debris, this could easily block airflow throughout your home’s HVAC system.
- Finally, inspect and clear out any tubes/pipes leading up to and away from the outdoor AC unit including condensate lines located on top of the compressor leading outside; these need to remain free of clogs so water can escape easily from your AC system during operation.
Checking for Clogs or Blockages
Check the condensation pipes, drain lines, and air filters to make sure that nothing is blocking the flow of water. You should also check the drain pan to ensure that it isn’t clogged with debris or dirt. If there are any blockages, you’ll need to remove or clean them before the leak can be stopped. If the clogs are particularly severe, then you may need professional help.
Replacing Parts or Calling an Expert

If the water leaking from your air conditioner is due to a worn or blocked part, you may be able to address the issue yourself. If you’re comfortable and confident in your DIY skills, use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the worn part and replace it with an identical part that you buy from your local hardware store. If you’re relatively new to DIY or not sure what piece needs replacement, however, it’s best to err on the side of caution and call in a professional.
When hiring someone for air conditioning repairs, it’s essential that you find an experienced and qualified expert who can diagnose the source of your problem accurately and fix it promptly. Since installation and maintenance problems can be complicated, take time to search for a technician with good reviews on sites like Angie’s List, Google reviews or HomeAdvisor. Make sure they provide a warranty on labor as well as parts — this can give you peace of mind while protecting against any unforeseen repair costs in the future. It’s also important that they hold proper licenses issued by their local governing body so that their work meets safety standards before they leave your property.
Conclusion
When your AC is leaking water, it’s important to determine the source of the water. This may require a professional HVAC expert. If the water source is from a condensate drain line, try cleaning the line or clearing away any blockages. If a refrigerant leak is present and repairs are required, it is necessary to contact an HVAC technician for assistance.
It’s also important to ensure regular maintenance of your air conditioner and check all lines for cracks or leaks in order to prevent further problems. Taking these proactive steps can help you and your family stay cool when temperatures rise.