Have you noticed your air conditioner dripping water from the indoor unit, leaking down the wall, or even leaving a puddle on the floor? Don’t worry—this is a very common issue, especially in humid coastal areas.
In most cases, a leaking air conditioner doesn’t mean the system is completely broken, but it does mean something isn’t working correctly and should be checked to prevent bigger problems.
In this article, we’ll explain why air conditioners leak water, the most common causes, and how the issue is usually fixed safely and effectively.
Is it normal for an air conditioner to produce water?
Yes and no.
✅ It is normal for an air conditioner to produce water, because when it cools the air, it also removes humidity (condensation).
That water should collect in a tray and then drain out through a pipe.
❌ What is NOT normal is when water leaks from places it shouldn’t, such as:
- the front of the indoor unit
- the side
- the wall behind it
- or directly into the room
That usually means there’s a problem and it needs to be checked.
Main reasons why your air conditioner is leaking water
1) Clogged drain pipe (the most common cause)
Air conditioners have a drainage system that removes condensation water. If the drain pipe gets clogged due to:
- dust
- mold
- dirt buildup
- debris from construction work
- small insects
…the water can’t drain properly, builds up, and eventually overflows inside the unit, causing leaks.
✅ Typical signs:
- it leaks only after running for a while
- the unit sounds like it has water inside
- dampness appears on the nearby wall
📌 Solution: cleaning the drain pipe and the condensation tray.
2) Dirty filters or evaporator coil
When filters are dirty, air can’t flow properly through the unit. This can cause the system to cool too much and lead to ice buildup inside.
Once the ice melts, it creates excess water, which may leak indoors.
✅ Typical signs:
- weak airflow
- bad smell when turning it on
- leaking + poor cooling performance
📌 Solution: clean the filters and perform internal maintenance (not just cleaning the outside cover).
3) Poor installation (wrong slope)
For proper drainage, the indoor unit needs a slight tilt so the water flows to the drain.
If it’s not level, or if the drain pipe has dips where water gets trapped, the drainage fails and leaks occur.
✅ Typical signs:
- leaking happens from the first few days
- it leaks at specific times
- it leaks even if the unit is brand new
📌 Solution: inspect the installation and correct the slope or pipe routing.
4) Damaged or misaligned condensation tray
Inside the unit, there is a tray that collects water before it drains away. Over time, or due to improper handling, it can:
- crack
- shift out of place
- become deformed
Then the water won’t flow correctly and will leak indoors.
📌 Solution: internal technical inspection and replacement if needed.
5) Incorrect refrigerant level (may cause freezing)
Low refrigerant (due to a leak or loss) can cause abnormal cooling, freezing the coil. Then when it thaws, water may overflow and drip indoors.
✅ Typical signs:
- little or no cooling
- frost or ice inside the unit
- leaking after running for some time
📌 Solution: check pressure levels, find the leak, and refill refrigerant properly.
⚠️ Important: simply refilling refrigerant without fixing the leak is NOT a real solution—the issue will return.
6) High humidity (very common in coastal areas)
In places like Torrevieja, summer humidity can be high. That means the unit produces more condensation, and even a minor drainage issue can lead to leaks faster.
📌 Solution: maintenance and ensuring the drainage system is working perfectly.
What can I do at home if my air conditioner is leaking?
If the leak is minor, you can safely try these steps:
✅ 1) Turn off the system and dry the area
This prevents further water buildup and damage to walls or furniture.
✅ 2) Check and clean the filters
- Open the front panel
- Remove the filters
- Wash them with warm water and let them dry completely
📌 This can help a lot if the issue is related to poor airflow and freezing.
✅ 3) Check if the drain pipe is working outside
If you can access the drain outlet, see if water is draining properly.
⚠️ If there is no water draining while the unit is running, the pipe may be clogged.
What we DO NOT recommend (to avoid making it worse)
❌ Blowing strongly through the drain pipe without proper tools
❌ Inserting wires or objects into the drainage system
❌ Opening or manipulating internal components
❌ Refilling refrigerant without a proper inspection
❌ Turning it on repeatedly “to see if it stops”
📌 Many times, trying to fix it quickly can cause a bigger breakdown or even lead to wall leaks and structural damage.
When should you call a technician?
You should contact a professional if:
✅ the leak is heavy
✅ it keeps happening even after cleaning filters
✅ you see damp patches on walls or ceilings
✅ the unit cools poorly or freezes
✅ the indoor unit makes unusual noises
✅ there is a strong musty smell (mold)
How is a leaking air conditioner usually fixed?
A technician will typically check:
- Filters and internal cleanliness
- Condensation tray condition
- Drain pipe and possible blockages
- Drain slope and pipe routing
- Unit operation and possible freezing
- Refrigerant pressure if symptoms suggest low gas
✅ In many cases, the issue is solved in one visit with a proper cleaning and drainage adjustment.
Tips to prevent air conditioner leaks in the future
🔹 Clean the filters every 2–4 weeks during summer
🔹 Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year
🔹 Avoid extremely low temperatures (24–26°C is recommended)
🔹 In high humidity, use the system efficiently and consistently
🔹 If you notice wall moisture, check the drain as soon as possible
Conclusion
If your air conditioner is leaking water, it’s usually due to drainage issues, dirt buildup, or poor installation. It’s a common problem, but the sooner it’s checked, the easier it is to fix—and the better you can prevent damage to walls, paint, or furniture.
Need your air conditioner checked in Torrevieja?
At AC Torrevieja, we help you identify the cause and solve the issue quickly and safely.
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