3 COMMON CAUSES OF A LEAKING AC UNIT

If you notice unsightly spots on your ceiling or strange smells, there might be water in your attic. While there could be several potential causes, the culprit may be a leaking AC unit. Leaks of this kind are common, and they are usually easy for a trained professional to locate and repair. Check for these common causes of a leaking AC unit to avoid water damage, mold, and mildew growth and even house fires. Now, as the seasons change, may be the perfect time to repair your AC unit. Here are several reasons your attic AC unit may leak:

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

The most common reason for water near your AC unit is leaking from the condensate drain line, which removes excess water from the air and collects it. Over time this drain can become clogged, and this may cause serious damage.

2. Disconnected Drain Line

Leaking AC units can also be caused by improperly installed equipment in your home or a pipe that has become loosened over time. If a pipe fitting is not secured, it can disconnect and cause condensation to leak from your AC unit and onto the ceiling, causing water spots to form on the ceiling below. Or, a larger leak can cause the ceiling to collapse.

3. Condensate Pump Issues

The condensate pump collects and stores the water produced by your HVAC system and periodically transfers it to a drain line through an electric mechanism. If the pump is not functioning properly, water that should be draining out of your home can leak into your home.

What to Do if Your AC Unit Is Leaking

If you notice a leak, you can take the following steps:

• Schedule an annual HVAC tuneup: Your units should be checked regularly to prevent the above issues. Skilled technicians are expertly trained in solving problems like these for you.
• Educate yourself: It never hurts to learn more about the AC unit in your home. During a tuneup or repair, ask the technician where the backup condensate drain lines are located so you will know if they are clogged and are in need of repair.
• Consider an emergency shut down switch device: Float-switches are easy to install and designed to automatically shut off your AC unit if water levels reach a certain level. This handy device can save you thousands of dollars in damages, and your Ragsdale HVAC professional can install one for you.

When it comes to a leaking AC unit, the best step you can take is to stay ahead of the problem. Schedule routine maintenance, familiarize yourself with your AC system, watch for leaks and contact Ragsdale at the first sign of a problem.