Maintaining cool and comfortable indoor temperatures is necessary for hot climates or the summer months. We rely heavily on our air conditioning, making it a primary system in the home. So, when we find an air conditioner leak, we promptly want to know how to fix a leaking air conditioner before it breaks down.

Before trying a DIY repair job, let’s investigate the causes of air conditioning leaks and how serious it is. 

What Can Cause Your A/C to Leak?

Air conditioning units convert warm air to cool air before distributing it through your HVAC system. It collects condensation from the air as it passes through the appliance and disposes into a drain pan. This process is all part of the normal function of your A/C. 

So, having some moisture or water present is nothing to be alarmed about—to a degree. However, excess water means a problem with drainage or refrigeration fluid leaks, each requiring more investigation.

Water leaking can mean the drain pan is full and overflowing, or it could signify a clog. A refrigerant leak could indicate a buildup of pressure in the system. 

Let’s look closer at the types of air conditioner leaks and what causes them.

Types of Leaks

Standing leaks (SL) are the most common and detectable when the unit is off. They usually occur in the evaporator coil, condensing coil, suction line dryer, or accumulator. Pressure-dependent leaks (PDL) occur from pressure buildup within the cooling system. Finally, temperature-dependent leaks (TDL) often coincide with frost accumulation and involve a condenser blockage.

Two liquids coincide with an air conditioner leak.

1. Refrigerant Leak - Refrigerant helps convert and transfer warm air from the coils. When it leaks, your air conditioner no longer cools your house, and frost can develop on the unit. Refrigerant leaks produce an odd odor, but also pose a health hazard.
2. Water Leak - As the air passes through, your air conditioner filter collects dust and debris to prevent it from redistributing. When the filter is overloaded and needs changing, it can no longer filter properly, building up in the drainage system and causing clogs.

Can I Fix it Myself?

You can fix some issues, such as emptying the drain pan or clearing a clog in the A/C drainage system. 

Trying to repair your A/C unit could result in inadequate “band-aid” solutions that only temporarily solve the problem. Furthermore, you could cause more damage, leading to higher repair bills when you finally call in professional assistance.

When to Call a Professional

Short of a simple solution like exchanging the air filter in your A/C unit or handling a full drain pan, you should leave everything else to trained professionals dealing with air conditioning systems daily.

HVAC technicians can quickly assess and diagnose the root cause of your air conditioner leak and then order the correct parts for your repair. Further, they are likelier to have the proper tools, parts, and skills to get your A/C up and running without costly errors or extended delays from inexperience. 

Keep Your Air Conditioning Running Smoothly

The best way to keep your home cool and comfortable is with professional A/C maintenance and repair. Your HVAC technician can monitor your system to catch issues before you have a more significant problem, keeping your air conditioning operational and efficient.

Don’t let your air conditioner leak turn into a breakdown. Instead, rely on the trusted services of Heat Mechanical & Electrical in Waxahachie, TX., with all your air conditioning and HVAC needs. Their fully certified technicians have the knowledge and experience to inspect, maintain, and repair all makes and models, keeping you cool throughout the hot days.

Take all the guesswork out of maintaining your A/C unit! Make a service call appointment online or call 972-937-0697 today!