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Why is my AC leaking water inside the house?

If your AC is leaking water inside your house, it usually points to an issue with condensation management. In Florida’s humid climate, this is a common problem. Here are the main causes and solutions:

💧 Common Reasons Your AC Leaks Water Indoors

  1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line
    • Dust, dirt, or algae can block the drain line.
    • Water backs up and overflows into your home.
    • Solution: Clear the drain line with a wet/dry vacuum or call a technician.
  2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
    • Restricted airflow can cause coils to freeze.
    • When ice melts, it can drip inside.
    • Solution: Replace the air filter every 30–60 days.
  3. Frozen Evaporator Coils
    • Often caused by low refrigerant or poor airflow.
    • Melting ice leads to water dripping into your home.
    • Solution: Turn off the AC to let ice melt and check for airflow issues.
  4. Improperly Installed or Tilted AC Unit
    • If the unit isn’t level, water may not flow to the drain pan correctly.
    • Solution: Adjust or re-level the indoor unit.
  5. Damaged or Rusted Drain Pan
    • Over time, the pan can crack or rust, allowing leaks.
    • Solution: Replace the drain pan.

✅ Quick Homeowner Fixes

  • Turn off your AC if you see water pooling.
  • Check and replace the air filter.
  • Inspect the drain line for clogs.
  • Use a wet/dry vacuum to clear minor blockages.

⚠️ Call a licensed Klein Cooling HVAC technician if the leak persists, if you notice mold, or if the water is coming from refrigerant line issues.

AC Water Leak Troubleshooting Checklist

1. Turn Off the AC

  • ☐ Power off the system at the thermostat.
  • ☐ Turn off the breaker for the indoor unit to prevent further water damage.

2. Inspect the Air Filter

  • ☐ Check if the filter is dirty or clogged.
  • ☐ Replace the filter if needed (every 30–60 days in Florida).

3. Check the Condensate Drain Line

  • ☐ Locate the drain line near the indoor unit.
  • ☐ Look for visible clogs or algae buildup.
  • ☐ Clear the line using a wet/dry vacuum or a plumber’s snake.

4. Examine the Drain Pan

  • ☐ Inspect the pan under the evaporator coils for cracks or rust.
  • ☐ Replace the pan if damaged.

5. Look for Frozen Evaporator Coils

  • ☐ Check for ice buildup on coils.
  • ☐ If frozen, turn off the AC and let ice melt completely.
  • ☐ Schedule a technician if freezing recurs.

6. Check Unit Leveling

  • ☐ Ensure the indoor AC unit is properly leveled so water flows toward the drain.
  • ☐ Adjust or re-level if necessary.

7. Monitor After Fixes

  • ☐ Turn the AC back on and observe for leaks.
  • ☐ If water continues to leak, call a licensed HVAC technician.

⚠️ Tip: In Florida, high humidity increases the risk of water buildup. Regular filter changes and annual HVAC maintenance can prevent most leaks.