Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

Water leaking from your air conditioner can be a frustrating issue, especially during Sydney’s hot summers. While some causes are easy to fix, others require professional attention. In this guide, we’ll explore the common reasons behind a leaking air conditioner, how to address minor issues yourself, and when it’s time to call in an expert.

Common Causes of a Leaking Air Conditioner

1. Clogged Drain Line

The drain line carries moisture from your air conditioner to the outside. If it becomes blocked, water can back up and leak from the unit.

What You Can Do:

• First, find where the unit drains to:

  • In apartments: The unit often drains to the P-trap under a sink (kitchen, laundry, or bathroom). Disconnect the drainpipe and use a wet/dry vacuum to clear any blockage. If the blockage is in the P-trap, clear it out using a disposable skewer or similar tool to remove grease or debris buildup.

  • In houses: Split systems commonly drain to a location behind the outdoor unit. Inspect this area for blockages.

• If you can’t locate the drain or clear the blockage, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

2. Dirty Air Filters

When air filters are dirty, airflow is restricted, causing the evaporator coil to freeze. As the coil thaws, excess water can overflow the drain pan.

What You Can Do:

• Check your filters and clean or replace them every 1-3 months.

• Need help? If you’re unsure how to check your filters, watch these videos:

  • For split systems: How to Clean Your Split System Filter

  • For ducted systems: How to Clean Ducted AC Filters

• Still unsure? Give us a call, and we’ll walk you through it or handle it for you.

3. Damaged or Full Drain Pan

The drain pan collects water from the evaporator coil. If it’s cracked, rusted, or full, water can leak out instead of draining properly.

What You Can Do:

• Unfortunately, determining whether the drain pan is damaged requires a professional inspection. This isn’t something you can diagnose yourself, so it’s best to call an experienced technician.

4. Improper Installation

An air conditioner that isn’t installed correctly may not be level, causing water to collect in areas where it can’t drain properly.

What You Can Do:

• This is another issue that requires professional attention. If you suspect improper installation, contact a licensed technician to inspect and adjust your system.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried the steps above and your air conditioner is still leaking, it’s time to bring in an expert. At Artarmon Air Conditioning, we can:

• Safely unclog drain lines and clear blockages in sinks or P-traps.

• Inspect and repair damaged components like drain pans.

• Ensure your air conditioner is installed correctly and operating efficiently.

A leaking air conditioner may indicate a more serious problem with your system. By addressing minor issues yourself and calling in a professional when needed, you can prevent further damage and keep your home cool and comfortable.

If you’re unsure how to handle the issue or need professional assistance, contact Artarmon Air Conditioning today. We specialise in AC repairs, servicing, and maintenance across Sydney’s North Shore, Northern Beaches, and inner-city areas.