Why Is My AC Dripping Water? Causes, Fixes & Prevention

Why Is My AC Dripping Water

Have you recently noticed water leaking or pooling around your air conditioning system? If you’re asking, “why is my AC dripping water?”—you’re not alone. This is one of the most common air conditioning issues homeowners in Arkansas face.

While light condensation is normal, constant or excessive dripping could be a red flag. The issue might stem from a clogged drain line, a dirty filter, or even a failing condensate pump. At Riverside Comfort Care, we’ve helped countless residents across Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, and Greenwood fix leaky A/C systems and prevent costly water damage.

Here’s a breakdown of what might be causing the water leak—and what to do about it.


1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line – A Top Cause of AC Dripping Water

When your air conditioner runs, it extracts humidity from the air. This moisture is funneled out of the system via a drain line. But over time, that line can clog with debris, causing your AC to drip water or overflow.

What to do:

  • Mix white vinegar with water and flush the line
  • Use a wet/dry vacuum to clear the pipe
  • Call Riverside Comfort Care for expert AC drain cleaning if needed

For more tips, check Energy Saver – Maintaining Your Air Conditioner


2. Dirty Air Filter Leading to Leaks

Your AC filter impacts more than just air quality. If it’s too dirty, airflow is restricted and your evaporator coil may freeze. Once it thaws, excess moisture may spill into places it shouldn’t—resulting in your AC dripping water indoors.

Fix it:


3. Rusted or Cracked Drain Pan

Older systems may develop corrosion or cracks in the drain pan. If it can’t hold water from the evaporator coil, you’ll start to notice water leaking below the unit.

Inspect for:

  • Rust stains
  • Visible cracks
  • Wet flooring or dripping underneath the indoor unit

If the pan is damaged, it must be replaced.


4. Low Refrigerant = Ice = AC Dripping Water

Refrigerant problems can also lead to frozen evaporator coils. As the ice melts, water can overflow the drain pan and leak.

Warning signs:

  • AC isn’t cooling efficiently
  • Ice on refrigerant lines
  • Hissing sounds

Let a technician check for leaks and recharge refrigerant safely.

Learn more from ENERGY STAR – Air Conditioner Efficiency


5. Improperly Installed or Unleveled AC Unit

If your indoor unit isn’t level, water may not drain properly from the pan, causing leaks.

Look for:

  • Uneven positioning
  • Water dripping from unexpected areas

We’ll re-mount and level your system to restore proper drainage. Contact us today.


6. Failed Condensate Pump? Why Water Builds Up

In vertical installations, a condensate pump is used to push water away from the system. If it fails, the water has nowhere to go—and begins to back up.

Test the pump:

  • Pour water into the pan
  • If the pump doesn’t kick in, it may be broken

We can repair or replace your pump quickly and professionally.


Why Is My AC Dripping Water? Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs

Leaky AC units can lead to:

  • Wall and ceiling damage
  • Mold and mildew
  • Higher electric bills
  • Shortened system lifespan

If you’re wondering why is my AC dripping water, the safest move is to call in an HVAC expert to inspect and resolve the issue.

Check EPA – Understanding Moisture and Mold for health and safety tips related to water leaks.


Proudly Serving the River Valley Area

We assist homeowners across:

Whether you need help with AC leaks or a full system upgrade, we’re just a call away.


Stop AC Leaks Before They Cause Damage

📞 Call Riverside Comfort Care at (479) 123-4567
🌐 Schedule an appointment online

Still wondering why is my AC dripping water? Let us find and fix the problem fast—before it leads to bigger trouble.


 

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