How to Fix a Leaking Air Conditioner

Your air conditioner provides relief when hot, humid weather grips the Delaware Valley. Problems like a broken blower motor or depleted refrigerant require professional service. A water leak, however, could be something that you can remedy yourself. The steps for how to fix a leaking air conditioner depend on the source of the leak. Dripping could come from ice formation on frozen evaporator coils or a cracked drain pan. A blocked condensate drain is another common culprit.

Tools Needed

A wet-dry vacuum clears away pooled water and could be needed to unclog a condensate drain.

• Screwdrivers
• Flashlight
• Wet-dry vacuum
• Outdoor drain attachment for wet-dry vacuum

How to Fix a Leaking Air Conditioner

1. Turn off power to the AC unit at your breaker box.
2. Because frozen evaporator coils frequently cause dripping, begin by inspecting your air filter.
   1. You may need a screwdriver to access the filter and a flashlight to inspect it.
3. The airflow restriction caused by a dirty, clogged filter could freeze the evaporator coil.
   1. Replace the filter to restore proper airflow.
   2. Change the filter every 30 days thereafter during the season.
4. Check your vents to ensure that they are open or unblocked so that air can flow correctly.
5. Instead of a frozen evaporator coil, your leak might stem from a cracked drain pan.
   1. Make sure power is turned off.
   2. Inspect the drain pan beneath the air handler for leaks or cracks in the pan or connection pipe.
6. Use water sealant products, such as a spray, paint, or tape, to fix the leak.
7. If you do not see any evidence of cracks in the drain pan, look at the condensate drain.
   1. With the power still off, find the PVC pipe by the drain pan that has a small cap.
   2. Remove the cap and pour vinegar through the drain line.
8. If vinegar rinsing does not produce results, try clearing the line with the wet-dry vacuum.
9. Set up the wet-dry vacuum outside by the condensate drain line and fit it with the outdoor drain attachment.
10. Draw blockages out of the drain line with the vacuum.
11. Restore power to the air conditioner and see if it returns to normal function without leaks.

Get an Air Conditioner Inspection

Even if the steps for how to fix a leaking air conditioner succeed, your AC will benefit from an inspection. Air conditioner technicians from Oliver can evaluate refrigerant levels and tune-up the unit. This will increase energy efficiency and cooling performance. You don’t have to sweat through the summer with a failing air conditioner. Contact Oliver for an air conditioner repair estimate today