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Have a Leaking AC Unit? Here Are the Potential Issues
Did you know Phoenix, Arizona is the 6th hottest city in America?
Unsurprisingly, air conditioning is popular in Arizona homes, but what do you do if you have a leaking AC unit?
You’ll want to get it sorted as soon as possible.
Leaking AC units can cause all sorts of problems, from water damage to an increase in your energy bills.
We take a look at the most common causes of why your AC unit is leaking.
These include an air leak, a blocked or dirty aircon filter, a clogged drain line, damage to the aircon coil, improper installation, and poor maintenance.
So if your AC unit is leaking water, read on for more information about what could be causing the problem!
A Blocked or Dirty Air Conditioner Filter
One of the most common reasons for a leaking AC unit is a blocked or dirty AC filter.
If your air conditioner’s filter is clogged, it can cause the unit to overheat and leak water.
A blocked filter will also reduce the airflow to your AC unit, making it less efficient.
To prevent this from happening, be sure to regularly clean or replace your air conditioner’s filter.
A Clogged Drain Line
Another common cause of leaking AC units is a clogged drain line.
The drain line carries away the condensation that forms on the AC coils.
If the drain line becomes clogged, the water can back up and leak out of the unit.
To prevent this from happening, be sure to regularly clean your AC unit’s drain line.
The drain line is located at the back of the unit, so you’ll need to remove the cover to access it.
If you’re unsure, contact a professional who deals with air conditioner repair and maintenance.
Damage to the AC Coil
Another potential cause of a leaking AC unit is damage to the air conditioner coil.
The air conditioner coil helps to cool the air as it passes through the unit. If these coils become damaged, they can leak water.
The coils can become damaged from corrosion or physical damage.
If your AC unit is leaking water and you suspect the coils are damaged, it’s best to call a professional for help.
Improper Installation
Improper installation is another common cause of leaking AC units.
If your unit is not installed properly, it can lead to water leaks.
When having a new air conditioner unit installed, be sure to hire a professional who has experience with AC installation.
Improper installation can also void the warranty on your unit.
It’s best to avoid this problem altogether and go straight to the professionals.
Poor Maintenance
If you don’t properly maintain your AC unit, it can lead to a number of problems, including water leaks.
Be sure to regularly clean the unit and check for any damage. If you notice any problems, be sure to call a professional for help.
On average, air conditioner units should be serviced by a professional 2x per year in Arizona (once before summer and another time before the winter).
This is an inexpensive way of saving yourself from greater potential problems in the future.
A Rusted Drain Pan
The drain pan is located under the AC unit and collects any water that drips from the coils.
Over time, the drain pan can become rusty and start to leak.
If you notice a leaking AC unit and a rust-colored stain on your floor, it’s likely that the drain pan is leaking.
To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace the drain pan.
This is a job that should be done by a professional.
Frozen Coils
Another potential cause of leaking AC units is frozen coils.
This typically happens when you have a blocked air filter, which restricts the airflow needed to keep condensation off the coils.
Another common cause of frozen coils can be a refrigerant leak.
If you think your AC unit’s coils are frozen, be sure to turn off the unit and call a professional for help.
Is A Leaking AC Unit Dangerous?
A leaking AC unit is not dangerous, but it can cause damage to your home.
If left unchecked, a leaking AC unit can lead to water damage, mold, and mildew.
In extreme cases, it can even cause structural damage to your home.
A leaking AC unit can also, if unchecked, damage the entire unit beyond repair.
What can be dangerous is a coolant leak. This differs from a water leak as the coolant is a poisonous chemical.
If you think your AC unit is leaking coolant, be sure to call a professional for help immediately.
How to Tell The Difference Between a Coolant and Water Leak?
A coolant leak will be a brightly colored liquid, typically green or yellow.
A water leak will be clear and have no color.
If you’re unsure whether your AC unit is leaking water or coolant, it’s best to call a professional for help.
How Much Does Air Conditioner Repair Cost?
The cost of air conditioner repair will vary depending on the problem.
A leaking AC unit is typically not a major repair and can be fixed for a relatively low cost.
More serious problems, such as damage to the coils, can be more expensive to fix.
The best way to avoid expensive repairs is to regularly maintain your AC unit.
This includes regularly changing the filter and having it serviced by a professional two times per year.
Regular maintenance can also help to extend the life of your AC unit, saving you money in the long run.
Talk to the AC Experts
If you do need to repair your leaking AC unit, be sure to call a reputable and experienced professional.
This will ensure that the job is done right and that your AC unit is back up and running as quickly as possible.
If you’re worried that your AC is leaking, or simply want maintenance or servicing, contact the team at Mark Daniels Air Conditioning & Heating.
Looking for a trusted Gilbert Arizona Air Conditioning repair company? Contact your 5-star, emergency HVAC experts at Mark Daniels Air Conditioning & Heating. We’ve been serving the Valley Since 1996. Call (480) 571-7219 or request service online today!
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