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HomeRepair HelpCentral A/C RepairCentral air conditioner leaking at furnace or air handler Repair
Central air conditioner leaking at furnace or air handler
If your central air conditioner is leaking water at the furnace or air handler, the problem is usually in the evaporator coil's condensate drainage system, not the refrigerant system. An evaporator coil that is not tilted correctly toward the drain outlet can send water past the pan, making your air conditioner leak water or causing water under the furnace from AC operation. If the drain pan (also called a drip tray) is not overflowing, inspect it for a crack that allows an air handler leaking water or an AC condensate leak. A clogged condensate drain line or drain trap is less common, but it can back up water until the evaporator drain pan overflows. Turn off power to the central air conditioner before clearing a clog or inspecting internal parts. Replacing a cracked drain pan or other accessible component is typically a manageable DIY repair, but electrical work inside the air handler may involve line voltage and should be handled by a qualified technician. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement condensate drain pan, drip tray, drain line, or other part for your specific central air conditioner.
01 - Evaporator Coil Not Tilted Toward Drain
To help the condensate water to flow towards the drain outlet in the pan, most installers will tilt the evaportor coil slightly towards the drain hole. If the evaporator coil is not level, or tilted incorrectly, water will not flow to the drain hole and may overflow the pan.
Common
02 - Central Air Conditioner Drip Tray
The evaporator is normally tilted slightly towards the drain hole to help the water to drain properly into the drip tray. If water is leaking from the drip tray but the tray is not overflowing, the drip tray is likely cracked and will need to be replaced.
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Common
03 - Central Air Conditioner Drain Pan
The evaporator is normally tilted slightly towards the drain hole to help the water to drain properly into the drain pan. If water is leaking from the drain pan but the pan is not overflowing, the drain pan is likely cracked and will need to be replaced.
Common
04 - Clogged Drain Tube or Drain Trap
When the air conditioner is running, condensation forms on the evaporator coil and drips into a drain pan. From there the water is directed through a pipe with a trap to a floor drain or condensate pump. If the drain tube or trap gets clogged, the water will back up and overflow the drain pan. If water is leaking from the evaporator pan, it is likely the drain tube or trap is clogged and will need to be cleared to allow the water to flow normally. Be sure to shut off the power to the unit before attempting to remove the clog.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my central air conditioner leaking water at the furnace or air handler?
How can I tell whether my AC condensate drain is clogged or the drain pan is cracked?
Can I clear a clogged air conditioner drain tube or drain trap myself?
What should I do if the evaporator coil is not tilted toward the drain pan?
How do I find the correct replacement drain pan or drip tray for my central air conditioner?
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