My air conditioner is dripping!!!

Air conditioners are designed to remove moisture from air [dehumidification] for human comfort. So they often drip water. But excessive water leakage may be due to some problem with the machine.

Let us have a look at the possible causes:

Clogged condensate drain pipe

The excess moisture removed from the air is drained to approved receptor through condensate drain pipes. Clogging in these pipes result on the back flow of water to the unit and the condensate drain pan under the evaporator coil overflows. When this happens the water will drip from the air terminal points.

Damaged condensate pump

Some air conditioner units like cassette units have in-built condensate pump. Any damage to these pumps result in the overflow of condensate and dripping.

Dirty air filter

Air filter is a component in air conditioner which required periodic cleaning, maintenance and replacement. Evaporator coils are designed to operate between a minimum and maximum airflow ranges. But a clogged air filter may cause restricted airflow which results in freezing of evaporator coil which inturn causes excess moisture removal. This water will cause overflow and dripping.

Damaged condesate pan

Condensate pan is a condensate collection pan installed below evaporator coil. Damage or wear and tear of the condensate pan causes water leakage.

You can try following fixes for rectifying water leakage.

1. Check condensate pipes for clogging.

2. Check, repair or replace condensate pump as required.

3. Check condensate drain pans for any potential cracks.

4. Call service technicians.