AC Leaking Water Inside the House
In a Georgia summer, your AC pulls gallons of water out of the air every day. When that water doesn't drain, it ends up on your floor or ceiling.
First: turn the AC off at the thermostat (and at the breaker if water is near the unit's wiring). Put towels or a bucket under the drip. If it's coming through a ceiling, check for sagging and move things out of the way.
Why ACs leak in Georgia homes
- Clogged condensate drain line: the most common cause. Algae and sludge build up in the line, especially in humid summers.
- Overflowing or rusted drain pan under the air handler
- Frozen evaporator coil: from a dirty filter or low refrigerant; it drips heavily when it thaws
- Failed condensate pump in basements or closets where water can't drain by gravity
- Disconnected or cracked drain line in the attic or wall
Where the water shows up
Attic unitsCeiling stains or drips, often below the air handler or a vent
Closet or hallway unitsWet carpet or flooring around the closet
Crawl space unitsWater pooling under the house and raising humidity
Basement unitsPuddles around the furnace or condensate pump
What you can check yourself
- Change the air filterA clogged filter can freeze the coil.
- Check the drain panIf it's full, the line is likely clogged.
- Clear the drain lineMany lines have a cleanout or a PVC access point; a wet vac on the outdoor end can pull out clogs.
- Call an HVAC techFor frozen coils, pump failures or anything you're not comfortable with.
When it becomes water damage
A slow AC leak can soak ceiling drywall, attic insulation or subfloor for weeks before it shows. If a ceiling is stained or sagging, or flooring is wet beyond a quick wipe-up, a restoration company can check moisture levels and dry it before mold sets in.
See also: ceiling water damage · mold remediation · how fast mold grows
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for an AC to drip water?
Outside, yes. The condensate line usually drains near the outdoor unit or foundation. Water inside the house is not normal and means something isn't draining.
How do I prevent AC leaks?
Change filters regularly, have the system serviced each spring, and pour a cup of white vinegar into the condensate line access every few months to slow algae growth (check your system's manual first).
Water in your home? Get a local pro on the way.
Call and we'll connect you with an independent local water damage restoration company that serves your area. The referral is free, and many local companies answer around the clock.