Common Reasons Your AC Is Leaking Water

Noticing water pooling around your AC unit? You’re not alone. An air conditioner leaking water is one of the most common AC repair issues homeowners face, particularly during the hot, humid summers in Texas. While your AC unit is designed to manage condensation, it should never result in water leaks inside your home. When it does, something’s wrong—and it needs attention quickly.

At Wright’s AC & Heat, we’ve been helping homeowners in Wimberley and the surrounding areas since 1992. Here’s a breakdown of the common reasons your AC may be leaking water, what signs to look for, and how to stop the problem before it causes severe water damage or system failure.

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

A clogged condensate drain line is the most common reason an AC unit leaks water. As your air conditioner cools the air, it also removes humidity. The resulting moisture drips into a pan and exits your home through a small pipe. Over time, this pipe can become blocked with dirt, mold, algae, or other debris, leading to water backing up and overflowing into your home.

If you notice water leaks near your indoor unit or dripping from the ceiling, a clogged line is likely the issue. A professional can clear the blockage using a wet-dry vacuum and flush the system to restore proper drainage.

2. Damaged or Rusted Drain Pan

Older systems are especially prone to having a damaged drain pan. If your system is over 10 years old, corrosion or cracks in the pan can allow water to escape. Since the pan is responsible for catching condensation, any weakness will allow water to leak into the surrounding area.

Depending on the extent of the damage, a technician may repair or replace the pan—or, if your system is aging, they may recommend upgrading the unit to prevent recurring issues.

3. Dirty Air Filters

A dirty air filter restricts airflow, which can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. When airflow is blocked, the coil gets too cold. Then, as the ice melts, you may suddenly have water leaking faster than the system can drain. This issue not only contributes to leaks but also causes your AC to blow warm air and operate inefficiently.

Regularly changing your filter—typically every 1 to 3 months—helps prevent this issue. It also improves indoor air quality by removing allergens and dust from circulation.

4. Low Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels are another reason your evaporator coil may freeze. This is often due to a refrigerant leak somewhere in your system. As with dirty filters, once the frozen coil thaws, excess moisture may overwhelm the drain system, leading to water leaks and indoor damage.

Look out for signs like hissing sounds, poor cooling, frozen coils, or bubbling noises from your lines. It’s essential not to refill the refrigerant without proper consideration. Instead, schedule a professional repair to locate the source of the leak and fix it before topping off the system.

5. Improper Installation or Leveling

If your AC system—especially a window unit or newly installed equipment—isn’t level, water may not flow properly through the drain line. Instead, it can spill into the home, causing leaks. This issue is more common than you might think and can occur after moving the unit or undergoing renovations.

A certified HVAC technician can check the unit’s placement and re-level it to ensure optimal drainage and performance.

6. Faulty Condensate Pump

In homes where gravity drainage isn’t possible (like in basements), a condensate pump is used to remove water. If the pump malfunctions or fails, the result is water pooling around your AC unit. Whether it’s a clog or a motor failure, these pumps need quick inspection and either cleaning or replacement to restore proper function.

7. High Humidity Levels

During a Texas summer, high humidity levels can overwhelm even a properly functioning AC. When there’s excessive moisture in the air, your system pulls in more water than usual. If your drain line is partially blocked or the pan is aging, even minor issues can cause leaks.

Adding a humidity management solution—like the Solaris Whole House Air Purifier available through Wright’s AC & Heat—can reduce moisture, ease system strain, and improve your home’s overall indoor air quality.

What to Do If Your AC Is Leaking Water

If you notice water leaking from your air conditioner, take these steps:

• Turn off the AC to prevent further damage.

• Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty.

• Look for signs of a frozen evaporator coil, standing water, or unusual noises.

• Call a licensed HVAC professional to inspect and resolve the issue properly.

Delaying repairs can lead to significant water damage, mold growth, and expensive system issues.

Prevent Future Water Leaks with Routine AC Maintenance

The best way to prevent an AC unit from leaking water is through regular preventive AC maintenance. At Wright’s AC & Heat, our seasonal tune-ups include:

• Drain line cleaning

• Dirty air filter checks and replacements

• Refrigerant level inspections

• System performance testing

• Full inspection of key components that can lead to leaks

This kind of attention prevents breakdowns, saves you from emergency repairs, and extends your system’s lifespan—ultimately saving you money and keeping your home more comfortable year-round.

Stay Dry and Cool This Summer with Wright’s AC

Water leaks from an AC system are never normal and should never be ignored. Whether it’s a clogged condensate drain line, a frozen evaporator coil, or low refrigerant levels, these issues require prompt, professional attention to prevent more serious damage.

Wright’s AC & Heat has been the trusted name for AC repair in Wimberley for over 30 years. We’re here to help you repair or replace your system, improve indoor air quality, and avoid costly breakdowns.

Call us today at +1 512-847-3191 for honest, expert service you can count on.