Water production inside the air conditioner is still a mystery to many users. The first misconception to clear is that the unit produces water. The machine causes the water to condense and directs it to the plughole. Once in the drain pan, the water finds its way to the drain line, and away it moves from the home. If there is any problem in between these components, it will probably be some leakage. You cannot afford to ignore those water drips because of the damage they can cause to the home as well as their potential health effects. That is why experts in air conditioning repair in places like Largo, Florida analyze the system for any of the following issues:
Dirty Air Filter
Dehumidifying the air is one of the major cooling methods an air conditioner does. The resulting condensation must be led away from the unit, and the cold evaporator coil does this job. Ideally, the coil leads it to the drain pan. Dirt on the coil changes all this, as it makes the water drip to the nearby surface. Annual inspections are your best bet against this issue.
Poor Workmanship
Installation problems are highly possible if you hire an inexperienced contractor. One of the basics is to elevate the front end of the unit slightly as compared to the rear end. The rule of the thumb is an elevation of 1 inch. If the elevation is less than recommended, water leakage will probably occur. Improper sealing can also cause problems. Know who to hire for the best performing units.
Low Refrigerant Levels
The following are signs of low refrigerant levels in an air conditioning unit: constant runs, ice formation and warm air production. Low refrigerant means low pressure in the system, the result being ice formation. This ice can freeze and drip out from any opening. If you notice this problem, the chances of a leak are high. This could be a serious problem, especially because of the dangers of refrigerant exposure. Call a licensed HVAC professional immediately.
Damaged Condensate Pan
Is your air conditioner more than a decade old? Maybe the condensate pan is already damaged after many years of constant use. Damage and rust are common enemies for this component. If you are unsure where this pan is located, find it beneath the cooling coils of the unit. As you remove the component, make sure the power is off to prevent any accident. You can look for replacement parts in stores everywhere.
Blocked Drain Pipe
A clogged drainpipe will also lead to a lot of leakage from the air conditioning system. Often, water is backing up because of sludge or dirt within the pipe. Unclogging is the automatic remedy for this issue, the most popular approach being the wet or dry vacuum. This isn’t a DIY solution, however. Let the pros handle it.
The great thing with an HVAC contractor is that they can identify the source of the leak effortlessly. Also, they can also pinpoint other issues that also need urgent attention. Make sure to schedule your system for regular maintenance and repair to avoid water leakage and other problems.
