Should You Be Worried About a Leaky A/C Unit?

It's no strange occurrence to have a leaky air conditioner. It is actually quite common. But that doesn't mean you should ignore it if it happens to your unit. A leaky A/C can be a sign of a much bigger problem, and if left unchecked, it can lead to expensive A/C repair in Austin, TX, or even replacement.

So, should you be worried if you find your unit leaking? Well, not necessarily. It usually indicates that your A/C requires cleaning or servicing. But if the leak is accompanied by other symptoms like strange smells or noises, it could signify a more severe problem. It is always best to err on the side of caution and call a professional if you're unsure.

8 Possible Reasons for a Leaking Air Conditioner

Water is a natural result of the cooling process, and it is not uncommon for a small amount of condensation to accumulate on air conditioners. This is usually nothing to worry about. However, a significant amount of water or fluid leaking from the unit might indicate trouble.

Here are eight possible reasons for a leaking air conditioner that may require professional A/C repair in Austin, TX:

• Clogged Condensate Drain

One of the most common causes of a leaky A/C is a clogged condensate drain. The condensate drain is responsible for removing water that has condensed on the evaporator coils. If this drain becomes clogged, the water will back up and eventually start leaking out of the unit.

• Frozen Evaporator Coils

Frozen evaporator coils can happen when the air filter is dirty or when the coolant level is low. When the coils freeze, they stop the flow of refrigerant, which can cause water to build up and leak out.

• Leaking Refrigerant

If your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, it's a more serious problem that will require the help of an expert technician. Refrigerant leaks can be caused by a variety of things, including loose connections, damaged parts, or even manufacturing defects.

• Damaged Ductwork

Leaky ductwork is another possible cause of a leaking air conditioner. If the ducts are damaged, they can allow conditioned air to escape, which may result in water buildup and leaks.

• Cracks in the Foundation

Yes, cracks in the foundation or walls can also cause leaks and require A/C repair in Austin, TX. If the unit is not adequately sealed, outside air can enter the home and cause condensation.

• Incorrectly Sized Unit

An air conditioner that is too big for the space will run less efficiently and may not be able to remove all the moisture from the air. On the other hand, a small unit will have to work harder to cool the home, leading to leaks.

• Poorly Insulated Home

Insulation plays a vital role in keeping the indoor temperature consistent. If the home is not correctly insulated, outside air can enter and cause condensation and leaks.

• Leaky Windows or Doors

If your A/C unit is located near a window or door, then a leaky seal could cause the leaking. The seals around windows and doors can deteriorate over time, allowing air to leak into the home. This causes the A/C unit to work harder to cool the house, which can lead to water leakage.

Trust the HVAC Pros for Repairing Your A/C Leaks

If you think you may have a leak in your air conditioner, you should call a professional for help. The HVAC pros at Covenant Air Conditioning & Heating are experts at A/C repair in Austin, TX, and can help you get to the bottom of the problem.

They will inspect your unit and determine the cause of the leak before making the necessary repairs. Contact them at (512) 515-6946 to schedule an appointment!