Like any system in your home, your heating and cooling system might have some issues through the years. A water leak is one problem that can be worrisome if not addressed. 

While water leaks vary in size, larger leaks can cause damage to your home. That’s why, when dealing with a leak, it’s best to take action right away. 

In this article, you’ll learn what causes your HVAC system to leak water, what to do, possible solutions, and prevention.

Water Leak Causes

If your system is leaking water, shutting it off is the first step. Once your system is off, the leak should stop. The main cause of water leaking from your HVAC system is an issue with the drain pan. If you have a blockage in your drain line or a crack in your drain pan, it will cause a leakage. 

Preventing a Leak from the Drain Pan 

Most systems today have a safety device known as a float switch. A float switch is installed in your drain pan and will shut your system off if your drain pan fills with water. 

In addition to having a float switch installed, another way to prevent water leaks is to have your system maintained annually. During a maintenance inspection, the technician will clear the drain line of any debris that has built up throughout the year. If not removed, this debris can cause a backup and water may leak out of your drain pan.

Other Water Leak Causes

Besides your drain line being backed up and causing your drain pan to overflow, there are other problems that can cause a water leak. 

If your duct system is “sweating,” it can cause water to drip in different places. This can be a quick fix and some insulation will usually solve the problem. If your system froze up due to a leak in your coil, when the system defrosts, you might notice some water around the system. This will continue to happen until the proper repairs are completed.  
Finally, some systems include that condensate pump and, if broken, will cause water to leak. The only way to stop the leak is to replace the pump.

Once again, at the first sign of a water leak from your HVAC system, turn it off! If the drain pan is filled, you can remove the water yourself. However, you will still need to contact a HVAC professional to diagnose the cause. 

If your system is leaking water for any reason, contact O’Brien and we’ll get there as soon as possible to find the root of the problem! Some water leaks are minor while others can cause lots of damage, so don’t wait to resolve the issue. Call 910.799.6611, or visit the company’s website at www.obrienservice.com to schedule service.