Why is water leaking from my AC inside the house?
Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools. That water collects in a drain pan under the indoor coil and leaves through a condensate drain line. A leak inside almost always means the water isn’t making it out. The most common causes:
- Clogged condensate drain line. Algae and sludge build up and water backs up into the pan and overflows.
- Cracked or rusted drain pan. Older metal pans corrode, and plastic pans can crack.
- Disconnected or sagging drain line. A loose fitting or a line without enough slope lets water escape.
- Frozen coil thawing. Ice from a dirty filter or low refrigerant melts faster than the pan can drain.
- Failed condensate pump. Systems in closets or interior rooms may rely on a small pump that can stop working.
- Sweating ducts or air handler. Cold metal in a hot, humid space collects condensation that drips.
What should I do right now?
- Turn off the system. Set the thermostat to Off and switch off the air handler breaker if water is near electrical parts.
- Protect the area. Move belongings, lay down towels, and put a bucket under active drips.
- Check the drain pan. If it’s full, soak or vacuum out the water and look for cracks or rust.
- Check the air filter. Replace it if it’s dirty, and look for ice on the coil or refrigerant line.
- Check the drain line. Make sure water is dripping from the outdoor end when the AC runs. If not, the line is likely clogged.
- Clear the line if you’re comfortable. A wet/dry vacuum on the outdoor end often pulls the clog free. Follow our step-by-step guide to unclogging an AC drain line.
Safety note: Don’t open the air handler cabinet. Water and live electrical components are a dangerous mix, and capacitors can hold a charge after the power is off.
Why are AC leaks so common in Florida?
Our humid climate means Clearwater systems pull a lot of water from the air, and they run for long stretches. More water and warm temperatures mean faster algae growth in drain lines. Clogged drains are high on our list of why ACs break down in Florida.
Many local homes also have the air handler in the attic, where heat and humidity can make the cabinet and ducts sweat even when the drain is fine. A leak there shows up as a stain on the ceiling. Learn more about how your attic can work against your AC.
When should you call a professional?
Call us if water keeps coming back after you clear the drain, the pan is cracked or rusted, the coil is freezing, the condensate pump isn’t running, or water is coming through the ceiling. Our technicians can find the source, clear or repair the drain, and check for related problems. Schedule AC repair in Clearwater or call (727) 252-9602.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, outside. Water dripping from the condensate line near the outdoor unit is normal. Water inside the house is not.
It’s best to turn it off until you find the cause. Running it can soak ceilings and floors and, if the coil is frozen, damage the compressor.
If your air handler is in the attic, a clogged drain line, overflowing pan, or sweating ductwork can drip onto the ceiling below. Turn the system off and check the drain pan.