Leaking air conditioners in Singapore aren’t just an inconvenience—they can damage your home and indicate deeper issues with your unit. A leaking AC might have problems with the drain line, evaporator coil, or filter, all of which require immediate attention. You don’t want to scramble around in Singapore’s heat when your air conditioner starts to act up due to a leak, right?
Check out below to find the 10 most common causes of aircon leaks and how to prevent them. Whether it’s water or refrigerant leaking, our HVAC professionals at Luce are here to provide expert solutions.
What Is the Impact of AC Leaking Water?
When your air conditioner is leaking water, it can lead to several problems if not fixed quickly. Below are some of the most immediate impacts of AC leaking water:
- When your air conditioner leaks, the first problem you may face is water damage. If left unchecked, the water can soak into your walls, ceiling, and flooring, causing stains, swelling, or rot!
- Excess moisture from a leaking AC creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. This can lead to unpleasant smells, poor indoor air quality, and even potential health issues for those with allergies or respiratory problems.
- A leaking air conditioner may have to work harder to cool your space, which increases your energy usage and monthly utility bills.
- If the leaking water reaches electrical parts inside the AC unit, it can lead to short circuits or other electrical problems. This not only damages the system but also poses a safety hazard in your home.
To avoid all these issues, it’s best to fix leaks as soon as they appear. Regular air conditioner maintenance can help prevent leaks and keep your system running smoothly and safely.
10 Reasons for AC Leaking Water
There are several reasons why your AC might be leaking water. Here are some of the most common problems that could be causing the issue.
1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line: In Singapore’s humid climate, the drain line can easily become obstructed by dirt and debris, causing water to back up and leak. Sometimes, the pump that drains the water may be damaged or not work properly. If that happens, replacing the pump is necessary to stop the leak.
2. Full Drain Pan: Due to the high humidity levels, air conditioners produce more condensation collected in the drain pan. When the pan reaches full capacity, it can overflow and cause your aircon to leak water.
3. Dirty Air Filter: In Singapore, where air conditioning is used frequently, dust and pollutants can accumulate in the filter, blocking airflow. A blocked filter prevents air from flowing over the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze. When the ice melts, excess water may overflow from the drip pan, leading to leaks.
4. Frozen Evaporator Coil: When the coil freezes due to dirt or low airflow, it will melt and cause leaks. To fix this issue, turn off the air conditioner and let the ice melt before cleaning the evaporator coil to prevent further damage.
5. Refrigerant Leak: Sometimes it may not be water leaking, but refrigerant instead. If you hear a bubbling or hissing sound accompanying the leaking, turn off the AC and call a technician right away.
6. Improper Installation: If the AC isn’t installed correctly, water may not drain properly and will leak. It’s really important to ensure your aircon unit is installed by a professional.
7. Aging and Corroded Pipes: Over time, pipes can rust or wear out, especially in humid places. This will cause a leak, and to troubleshoot this issue, you’ll need to replace old pipes to prevent leaks.
8. High Indoor Humidity: Too much moisture in the air creates extra condensation that can drip from the AC. You can use a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity to control indoor moisture levels and reduce leaks.
9. Worn-out Sealant around the Air Handler: The sealant around the air handler can wear off over time. Check it often and reseal it if needed to stop water from leaking through the gaps.
10. Poor Maintenance: Skipping regular cleaning and check-ups can cause many of the problems above. Service your AC regularly to keep it working well and avoid leaks!
Got Aircon Problems?
Got aircon problems, such as AC leaking water? Don’t wait until your aircon malfunctions—schedule yearly maintenance by Luce to check and ensure all components are working efficiently.
Our professional technician can help identify weak points before they escalate into costly repairs, keeping your unit in optimal condition. We offer aircon servicing from just $15 per unit (4 times a year) with same-day and last-minute availability, plus instant booking confirmation for your convenience!
More air conditioner problems? Check out our blog articles for troubleshooting guides and helpful tips!
FAQ
Is it normal for the AC to leak water?
No, it’s not normal. A small amount of water may drip from the outdoor unit, but if your indoor unit is leaking, it usually means there’s a problem or damaged parts that need attention.
Can we use AC when water is leaking?
It’s not recommended to do so. While your AC may still cool the room, using it while leaking can cause water damage to your home and may lead to bigger issues with the unit. It’s best to turn it off and get it checked by a technician.
Is the water leaking from the AC dangerous?
The water itself is usually just condensation, so it’s not harmful. However, if it leaks near electrical parts or causes mold, it can be a safety and health risk. Always fix leaks promptly to avoid further problems.
How to prevent the AC from leaking water?
You can prevent leaks by scheduling regular maintenance, cleaning your air filter, checking for blockages in the drain line, and making sure your AC is properly installed. Servicing your unit with Luce 3-4 times a year is a good way to keep it in good shape, especially with Singapore’s humid climate!
