Why Your Mission AC Unit Is Leaking Water Indoors

Finding water around your AC unit isn’t just frustrating—it can also be a sign that something’s gone wrong. A leaking AC system can quickly lead to other issues like water damage, mould growth, and poor cooling performance. If you’re living in Mission and noticing puddles, drips, or damp spots near your AC unit, especially during the peak of summer, it’s time to take a closer look.

This problem doesn’t go away on its own. In some cases, it could be simple, like a blocked drain. In others, it might point to an installation mistake or a broken component. The quicker you figure out what’s going on, the less damage your home has to deal with. Let’s look at what causes your AC unit to leak water indoors and how to handle the situation to prevent bigger headaches.

Why Water Leaks From Your AC Unit Indoors

When your AC runs well, it keeps your home cool without leaving a mess behind. But when it starts leaking water indoors, there’s usually a very specific reason behind it. Here are some of the most common causes homes in Mission face during summer.

1. Clogged Drain Line

As your air conditioner runs, it pulls moisture from the air and drains it through a line. Over time, that line can get clogged with dirt, dust, or algae. Once blocked, the water gets backed up and can start dripping into your home. This is one of the most frequent causes of indoor leaks.

2. Dirty Air Filter

When the filter is too dirty, air can’t flow properly through the unit. This can make the evaporator coil freeze up. When it eventually melts, the overflow of water may leak inside instead of draining outside. Changing the air filter regularly is a small task that helps avoid bigger problems.

3. Low Refrigerant

If your AC is low on refrigerant, it might cause the coil to freeze. Just like in the case of a dirty filter, when the ice melts, water may leak into your space. With low refrigerant, you might also notice poor cooling or a hissing sound. These are signs something more serious is going on.

4. Broken Condensate Pump

In setups where the unit is installed inside or below the drainage level, a pump helps move the water outside. If the pump is broken or failing, the water won’t drain like it should and will spill into your home. A working pump is key in these types of systems.

5. Faulty or Improper Installation

Sometimes the problem starts from day one. If your AC was installed without the right slope for drainage or if parts like the drain pan aren’t positioned properly, leaks will eventually appear. This issue often requires adjustments or repairs from trained technicians.

Understanding where the water is coming from gets you one step closer to solving it. The next step is knowing what can be done right away before calling in help. That can make all the difference in preventing damage early.

Steps Homeowners in Mission Can Take Before Calling a Professional

When discovering water leaking from an AC unit, the initial reaction might be panic. But some preliminary steps can help reduce damage and rule out a few of the more manageable problems before scheduling a visit from our technicians. These checks are straightforward and can sometimes offer temporary relief or give you a better understanding of what’s wrong.

1. Turn off the AC system. This is the safest first step. It stops more water from building up and gives you a chance to look things over without added pressure on the system. Shutting it down at the thermostat and the breaker helps avoid electrical risks.

2. Check the air filter. Take a look at the filter and see if it’s dirty or completely blocked. If the surface is coated in dust or debris, replacing the filter might be enough to help air flow properly again. Be sure the new filter fits your system, and align it based on the arrows provided.

3. Inspect the drain line. If you can locate the condensate drain line, see if it looks clogged. A common sign is standing water in the drain pan or around the unit. In some cases, slow dripping from the pipe can also mean a partial blockage. If there’s visible buildup, it may require a flush using proper tools or clearing by professionals.

4. Make sure the unit is level. Sometimes, an indoor AC unit or drain pan might have shifted from its original position. A slight tilt can cause water to spill in the wrong direction. If safe to do so, check the platform or bracket that holds your system. If it wobbles or looks uneven, take note before calling for a repair. Trying to fix alignment without proper support can lead to more damage.

Taking these steps can help limit water damage while you wait for support. If any signs suggest long-term wear, mechanical damage, or low refrigerant, it’s important to avoid experimenting further.

When It’s Time To Call Our Professionals

Some AC faults are too complex or risky for homeowners to manage on their own. When leaks continue after basic checks or new symptoms appear, it’s time to bring in our professionals. A trained technician can diagnose what’s happening inside the system, even if the signs aren’t visible.

Persistent leaking is usually a red flag. If you’ve already changed the filter and confirmed the drain line is clear, yet water keeps pooling indoors, chances are the issue goes beyond surface-level. Ignoring this can lead to internal damage, especially around electrical components.

Ice building on the refrigerant lines or the evaporator coil is another reason to call. This often points to low refrigerant, which not only affects comfort but also makes the unit work harder. Adding or handling refrigerant should always be done by a certified technician. Trying to troubleshoot refrigerant issues on your own could void your warranty or cause further harm to the system.

A leak accompanied by buzzing, sparking, or complete system failure is more than a simple blockage. These are urgent signs that the AC’s internal parts aren’t running safely. Our technicians can guide you through what needs replacing or repairing instead of guessing based on online advice.

Waiting too long may lead to secondary problems inside your home, like mould behind the drywall or warped flooring near the unit. Dealing with it early can prevent more expensive repairs later on.

Preventative Measures To Avoid Future AC Leaks

Preventing leaks starts with regular care and paying attention to warning signs. Many indoor leaks come from an issue that’s been creeping in for weeks or even months. By putting a few maintenance habits in place, you can reduce the chance of needing emergency AC repairs down the line.

Here are a few preventative practices that help:

– Schedule regular maintenance appointments before each cooling season. A full system check includes looking at the coil, drain line, refrigerant level, filters, and more.

– Keep the area around the indoor unit clean and dry. Check once a week during peak use for signs of moisture, mildew, or strange odours. These can appear before a full leak becomes visible.

– Change the air filter every 30 to 90 days. If your home has pets, dusty surroundings, or high AC use, consider replacing it more often.

– Listen for unusual sounds. Bubbling, hissing, or knocking noises should never be ignored. Catching early sound changes can point you to refrigerant leaks or clogged drains before leaking starts.

By staying alert and working these habits into your routine, you reduce the chances of breakdowns during high-demand months.

Keep Your AC System Running Smoothly This Summer

Indoor AC leaks are frustrating and disruptive, especially during peak cooling periods. What starts as a small pool of water near the unit can grow into water damage that impacts walls, floors, and even electrical wiring. Taking quick, informed steps is your best protection.

By staying alert to early warnings and scheduling maintenance before summer hits hard, you put your AC in the best position for strong, steady performance. In Mission’s warm season, a well-maintained AC system doesn’t just provide comfort—it protects your home and everything in it.

Even with added care, AC problems can still occur. When they do, it helps to have knowledgeable support in Mission that understands local conditions and the equipment inside your home. Keeping your system tuned and leak-free is manageable when you act early and get help when it’s needed.

Ensure your home remains comfortable and free from water damage by addressing AC issues as soon as you notice them. You may want to consider professional AC installation in Mission as a preventive measure against future leaks and system failures. Rep-Air Heating And Cooling understands that reliable performance starts with proper installation and regular upkeep, so for a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.