Air Conditioner Leaking Water in Greater Vancouver

Water leaking from an air conditioner — typically from the indoor air handler or evaporator coil area — is a common summer problem that requires prompt attention to prevent water damage in the home.

What This Means

The AC evaporator coil collects moisture from the air during cooling. This condensate should drain through a drain pan and condensate line. When the drain is blocked or the pan overflows, water leaks into the home.

Common Causes

• Condensate drain line blocked by algae, sludge, or debris
• Primary drain pan full — safety float switch may not be installed or not working
• Evaporator coil frozen — large volumes of ice melting when unit shuts off overflow the drain pan
• Drain pan cracked from age
• Condensate drain line pitched incorrectly — inadequate slope for drainage
• Clogged drain causing backup into the secondary drain pan — a signal that the primary drain has failed

What Homeowners Can Check Safely

• Shut off the AC if water is pooling near the air handler to prevent water damage
• Check whether water is dripping from the air handler or from nearby pipes
• Flush the condensate drain line with a wet vacuum attached to the exterior drain line opening — this resolves most simple blockages

When to Call a Licensed Technician

Air conditioning and mini-split systems contain refrigerant under pressure and electrical components at line voltage. Do not open refrigerant circuits, attempt to recharge the system, or bypass safety controls — these require a certified technician.

• Condensate drain professional flush and algaecide treatment
• Drain pan inspection and replacement if cracked
• Float switch installation if not present — prevents overflow by shutting off the AC when primary drain backs up
• Evaporator coil inspection for icing (low refrigerant or airflow issue)

Frequently Asked Questions

My AC is leaking water in the house. How urgent is this?

Moderately urgent. A dripping condensate leak can cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and flooring if left running for hours. Turn off the AC, try to flush the drain line if accessible, and call for service. If you have a float switch (a safety device that shuts off the AC when the drain backs up), check whether it has tripped — this confirms the drain is blocked.

How do I flush my AC condensate drain line?

Locate the exterior condensate drain line exit (a small PVC tube that exits the home and drips water during cooling). Attach a wet vacuum to the end and seal with tape or your hand. Run the vacuum for 1 to 2 minutes — this usually pulls the blockage out. Alternatively, pour a cup of distilled vinegar into the drain pan access opening inside the air handler to kill algae in the line.

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