Has your air conditioning started leaking water inside your home? Whether you’re spotting a slow drip or a sudden puddle, an AC leak is more than just an inconvenience—it can signal an underlying problem with your air system that needs quick attention. 

Here’s everything you need to know if your air conditioner is leaking water, and what steps to take to stay cool and dry.

Why Does My Air Conditioner Produce Water? (Understanding Air Conditioner Water Formation)

If you’ve ever noticed water droplets or a small puddle near your AC unit, you might wonder why air conditioners produce water in the first place. The answer lies in how your air conditioning system cools your home. As warm air from your living space passes over the cold evaporator coil inside your indoor unit, the moisture in the air condenses, much like water forming on a cold glass on a hot day. This condensation collects as water droplets, which drip down into a drain pan located beneath your unit’s evaporator coil.

From there, the water is supposed to flow out of your home through a condensate drain line. This process is a normal and essential part of how air conditioners remove humidity and maintain comfortable indoor air. However, problems can arise if any part of this system is compromised. For example, a clogged drain line can cause water to back up and leak inside, while a damaged drain pan may allow water to escape before it can properly drain. 

Dirty air filters are another common culprit of AC leaks—when airflow is restricted, the evaporator coil can become too cold and freeze. When the ice melts, it can overflow the drain pan and cause excess water to leak from your AC unit.

Regular maintenance is key to preventing these issues. Cleaning or replacing dirty air filters, inspecting the drain pan for cracks or rust, and making sure the condensate drain line is clear of debris can help keep your air conditioning system running smoothly and leak-free. It’s also important to watch for signs of more serious problems, such as low refrigerant levels or a broken condensate pump, which can cause water leakage and require the expertise of a professional HVAC technician.

Ignoring water leaking from your air conditioner can lead to water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs down the line. By understanding how your AC unit produces water and taking proactive steps to maintain proper airflow and drainage, you can enjoy cool air all summer long without worrying about leaks or damage.

Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water?

When working properly, your A/C unit naturally creates condensation as it cools the air. That moisture should drain safely outside through a condensate drain line. But when that system fails, you might notice water leaking from the AC indoor unit, or even water dripping from your air conditioner inside the house. An AC leak can result in water damage and should be addressed promptly. 

An AC unit leaking water is often a sign of a problem with the drainage or cooling process, but a unit can also leak water if it is not properly maintained. The most common cause of water leaks is a clogged condensate drain line.

Here are the most common causes:

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

The most likely culprit for air conditioner water leaks is a clogged drain line. Over time, dust, dirt, and algae can block the pipe, causing condensation to back up and spill inside your home.

2. Damaged or Rusted Drain Pan

Your drain pan catches water from the evaporator coil. If it’s cracked or rusted, that water could leak onto your floor instead of draining outside.

3. Frozen Evaporator Coil

If your coil freezes (often due to restricted airflow or low refrigerant), it can thaw and create an excessive amount of water, which may overflow your pan and leak indoors.

4. Improper Installation or Sizing

A leaking air conditioner may also indicate that it’s the wrong size for your space or that it was installed without proper tilt or drainage setup.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Is Leaking Water

Be on the lookout for these common warning signs:

• Water puddles near the indoor unit.
• Ceiling stains if your unit is mounted above.
• Musty odors from trapped moisture or mold.
• Dripping noises or visible condensation.
• Your air conditioner is dripping water inside the apartment or house.

Even a small AC water leak inside the house can lead to mold, structural damage, or electrical hazards, so don’t ignore it.

What to Do When Your AC Is Dripping Water Inside

If you notice water leaking from the AC, here are the steps you should take immediately:

1. Turn off the air conditioner to prevent further water damage.
2. Check your air filter—if it’s clogged, replace it. Restricted airflow can freeze your coils.
3. Inspect for visible leaks or standing water around the unit.
4. Use a wet/dry vacuum to clear the drain line if you can access it safely.
5. Call a professional HVAC technician if you’re unsure or the leak continues.

When to Call the Experts at Elite Comfort Systems

If your air conditioner leaks water in the house repeatedly, or if you spot water leakage from the AC indoor unit and can’t fix it yourself, it’s time to bring in the pros.

At Elite Comfort Systems, we specialize in AC repair and maintenance in Idaho Falls and Eastern Idaho. We’ll quickly diagnose the issue—whether it’s a frozen coil, clogged drain, or faulty installation—and get your system running smoothly again.

If you need help now, contact Elite Comfort Systems for same-day air conditioning repair and reliable HVAC service in Idaho Falls and surrounding areas.