Why Is My AC Leaking Water?

You come home to find a small puddle forming beneath your air conditioner,  not exactly the welcome sight you were hoping for on a hot Florida day. While a little condensation from your AC is normal, visible water pooling around the unit is not. A leaking air conditioner could signal a simple maintenance issue or a more serious problem that needs professional attention.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Leaking AC

An air conditioner leak may seem harmless, but it can cause major trouble if left unchecked. Water dripping inside your home can damage drywall, flooring, and baseboards. Even worse, the moisture creates an ideal environment for mold growth, which can affect indoor air quality and trigger allergies. And because AC systems are powered by electricity, water leaks also introduce an electrical fire risk, something no homeowner should take lightly.

The key to avoiding these hazards is to find the source of the leak early. Below are some of the most common culprits behind a leaking AC.

Condensate Drain Clog

Your air conditioner’s evaporator coil pulls humidity out of the air, converting it into water that drains through a small condensate line. Over time, dust, algae, or debris can clog that drain line, causing the water to back up and spill over. You might notice standing water in the drain pan or musty odors from mold growth. Regular drain line cleaning or installing a safety float switch can help prevent clogs from causing damage.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

If your evaporator coils freeze, the ice will eventually melt, and that meltwater can overflow into places it shouldn’t. Frozen coils usually happen because of restricted airflow (from dirty filters or blocked vents) or low refrigerant levels. If your AC is blowing warm air or cycling off frequently, those are signs the coils may be freezing. Turning off the system and scheduling service right away helps prevent further damage to the compressor.

Drain Pan Issue

Older systems may develop a cracked or rusted drain pan, especially after years of exposure to moisture. When this happens, even a small amount of condensation can leak onto surrounding surfaces. The fix may be as simple as replacing the drain pan, but it’s important to have a technician check for other contributing issues like improper slope or alignment.

Oversized AC

Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to air conditioning. An oversized system cools your home too quickly, shutting off before it can remove enough humidity from the air. This leads to excess condensation, frequent on-off cycling, and water leaks from overworked components. A properly sized system, matched to your home’s square footage and layout, ensures balanced cooling and efficient moisture control.

Broken Condensate Pump

In some homes, especially those with air handlers in basements or attics, a condensate pump helps remove the collected water. If this pump fails or loses power, the water has nowhere to go and can pool around the unit. You may hear unusual noises or notice the pump not cycling as it should. A technician can inspect the pump and wiring to restore proper drainage.

Schedule AC Services in Deland, FL, With Jacob

A leaking air conditioner is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a warning sign that your system needs professional care. Whether it’s a clogged drain line, frozen coils, or a faulty condensate pump, the experienced team at Jacob Heating & Air Conditioning can find the cause and fix it fast.

Serving homeowners across Deland and West Volusia County, we’ve built our reputation on dependable service, skilled technicians, and honest pricing. From routine maintenance to full system repairs, our goal is to keep your home cool, comfortable, and dry all year long.

Don’t wait until a small leak turns into major damage. Schedule AC service with Jacob Heating & Air Conditioning today!