Many people in hot areas rely on air conditioners to make homes and offices comfortable. Air conditioners help to improve air quality, lower humidity, and reduce the risk of heat stroke and dehydration. 

In addition, they are very good for people who have asthma as they help to reduce the occurrence of asthma attacks. Unfortunately, like all machines, they can develop problems from time to time.

It is therefore essential to learn what these problems are and how to solve them if you use or plan to install an air conditioner on your property. For example, a common problem is the air conditioner leaking water. Here are the possible causes and tips for dealing with a leaky window air conditioner. 

Why is water dripping from my air conditioner filter?

Water leaking from the air conditioner affects its effectiveness. Here are the reasons why that happens.

Clogged Drain Line

If your air conditioner’s condensate drain line is clogged, it will start to leak water. A common cause of this clog is dust and dirt that passes through it.

Dirt and moisture mix to form a clog in the condensate drain line. When that happens, condensation does not drain correctly, and the water in the drain line overflows out of your Split ac indoor unit.

Unit Low on Refrigerant

Refrigerant is crucial to the proper functioning of your air conditioner. If refrigerant levels are too low or absent, it can cause leaks and reduce pressure in your air conditioning unit. 

The first sign that your air conditioner is low on refrigerant is a change in air temperature. You will notice that the air in the room is warmer even though you have not changed the unit’s settings. 

That is because a lack of refrigerant causes the evaporator coils to freeze, so they cannot do their job. Heat in your home will melt frozen water on the coils, and that will cause a leak from your air conditioner.

Dirty Air Filter

The air filter can also cause your air conditioner to leak water if it gets dirty. That is because it affects airflow to the evaporator coils. Over time the evaporator coils freeze, and when it gets warm or you switch off the unit, the ice on the coils will melt. That will result in the unit leaking water. 

Clogged Air filter

If the air filter becomes clogged with dust and debris, the unit will start to leak. That is because a clogged air filter inhibits air flow causing the evaporator coils to freeze. Therefore, a temperature change will result in the unit leaking water. 

Improper Installation

If your air conditioning unit is improperly installed, it may affect functionality. That will result in problems such as water leaking from the unit. One way to check whether the unit is correctly installed is to check whether the front is cooler than the back. It is advisable to have a trained technician install your air conditioner to prevent these problems. 

Damaged Pump

The pump in your unit helps drain water out of your Air conditioner drain pipe and prevent leaking. If it is not working, it will cause your unit to leak water. In addition, pump functionality can be impacted by the accumulation of dirt and other debris. 

Poor maintenance

All equipment in your home requires regular cleaning and maintenance. One of the things that can happen is that the unit starts to leak water. For example, you can check refrigerant levels and clean and replace worn-out parts to enhance functionality. 

How to fix the air conditioner leaking water inside?

A leaky air conditioner does not keep your home cool effectively. It is, therefore, essential to identify the cause of the AC leaking water inside an apartment and make the necessary corrections. Here are some tips on how to fix an air conditioner that is leaking water. 

Clogged Air conditioner drain pipe

You can clear a clogged drain pipe using a wet or dry vacuum. That will dislodge the dirt and debris forming the clog and ensure the water drains out correctly. Also, consider pouring bleach into the drain line every six months to prevent further clogs. 

Low refrigerant

Regularly checks refrigerant levels and refill when necessary. If the leak is caused by low refrigerant, a refill will stop it, and your unit will operate correctly. 

Dirty or clogged air filter

If the filter is causing a leak in your air conditioning unit, consider cleaning it or replacing it. It is crucial to ensure that you purchase the right filter for your unit. A clean air filter ensures better air quality and that your unit works correctly. Follow these steps to clean your AC air filter. 

• Switch off the unit to ensure that dirty air does not circulate in your home while cleaning the unit. 
• Next, remove your unit’s air filter and vacuum it. Vacuuming will remove dust and other allergens from the unit. 
• After that, use a cloth to wipe the dust off the frame. 
• Next, in a sink, rinse the filter thoroughly, ensuring you remove any bits of dirt on it. You can also deep clean the filter by soaking it in a solution of warm water and vinegar for one hour, then rinsing it again. 
• Finally, allow the air filter to air dry, put it into your unit, and switch it on. 

Regular maintenance

Regular maintenance will enhance the functionality and longevity of your Split ac indoor unit. Here are useful air conditioner maintenance tips. 

• Change or clean air filters regularly. 
• Clear bushes and other plants growing around your air conditioning unit. 
• Check the Air conditioner drain pipe regularly and clean it when dirt and dust build up. 
• Finally, schedule professional maintenance as a technician may spot issues you may not notice. 

Is water leaking from the air conditioner dangerous? 

No, water leaking from your air conditioner is not dangerous. However, the leak can damage your home and items near the air conditioner. Good maintenance, cleaning, and repair can ensure you do not have to deal with this problem. If you notice a leak, check whether it is a water or refrigerant leak. Refrigerant leaks are dangerous for you and the environment. 

Check this too: How to Drain an Air Compressor

Can I still use my AC if it’s leaking water?

If you notice that your AC is leaking, turn it off immediately and clean up the water. If you keep using a leaky window air conditioner, the water may damage parts of your air conditioner and make repairs more expensive.