Leaking HVAC Systems: A Guide

Leaks are one of the most common problems you will face if you have an HVAC system installed in your home. When an HVAC system leaks water, it is unlikely to keep your house cool, and it could lead to water damaging the carpets and soft furnishings of your home. Understanding the possible causes of an HVAC leak can help you to diagnose the problem before you call in a professional HVAC repair company.

The Source of the Water

Many HVAC owners are puzzled about the source of water which is leaking from their HVAC system. After all, the HVAC system is not connected to the central water supply. Below is an explanation of how your HVAC system generates water. The HVAC system cools the air in your home by blowing the warm air it sucks in over an evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is filled with coolant. As the air hits the condenser coil, it cools down and releases the moisture that it contains. When the HVAC system is operating as it should, this water is collected and drained to the outside of your home. However, when this system fails in some way, water leaks occur.

The Possible Reasons for an HVAC System Leak

Blocked Drains

If the drain line running from your HVAC system to the outside of your home becomes blocked, this can lead to water backing up, eventually leading to a flood or leak. This often occurs because your HVAC system has sucked in small pieces of debris which enter the drainage system. The good news about this problem is that it is quite easy to fix by cleaning out the drainage channel.

Detached Drains

Another possible cause of a leaking HVAC system is a drain pipe which has become detached. If the drain becomes detached, it will not be able to capture the water which is dropping down from the condenser coil. An HVAC contractor can dismantle your air con system and can reposition your drainage channel.

If the HVAC system in your home is leaking, it is important that you take action immediately. If you do not, the problem will only become worse. You shouldn't try to try to carry out a DIY repair as you may damage the HVAC system. Instead, you should call an HVAC repair company who will dispatch a contractor who can carry out the required repairs to your home air con system.