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Why Is My HVAC Filter Wet?

Air conditioners can leak water for many different reasons, all of which demand immediate attention to prevent additional system issues.

Read on to find out why your air filter might be wet and the steps you can take to prevent further system damage!

1. Frozen Evaporator Coil

The most common reason an air conditioner leaks water is because a frozen evaporator coil has begun to thaw. Clogged air filters are often the root cause of a frozen evaporator coil, so it’s important to replace your air filter at least once every 90 days.

Solution

To see if this is the issue, open your air conditioner’s cabinet door to inspect inside your system.

If you see frozen coils, turn the system off and allow for enough time to pass so that the coils can completely thaw, then replace your air filter.

If the evaporator coil continues to freeze after replacing the air filter, there may be an underlying refrigerant issue at play. Request air conditioner repair from an experienced HVAC technician if this is the case.

2. Cracked Drain Pan

Wear and tear may be the culprit of a damaged drain pan. Pooled water could have also frozen and caused the drain pan to crack.

The drain pan is typically located near the floor of your indoor air handling unit. If you can locate your evaporator coils, simply follow a straight line down to where the drain pan is located to find it.

Solution

Before inspecting the drain pan, ensure that your air conditioner is turned off. Pull out the drain pan to inspect for cracks, pinhole leaks, or other signs of deterioration.

Clean out the entire pan and wipe it down with soapy water to test for hidden leaks. If a leak is present, bubbles will form where the leak is located on the drain pan as you wash it down.

These small leaks can be easily filled and patched with epoxy glue. However, we recommend replacing the entire drain pan.

3. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

When your evaporator coils have been neglected, they’ll build up dirt and debris. Any condensate that forms and falls into the drain pan will contain clog-causing particles. As more debris collects, the drain line will inevitably become blocked, causing an overflowing drain pan.

Solution

If you find an overflowing drain pan due to a drain line clog, you’ll need to grab a wet/dry vacuum to troubleshoot the issue using the steps below:

• Step 1: Turn off your system at the circuit breaker to prevent electrical shock while servicing your unit.
• Step 2: Locate the drain pipe in your outdoor condenser unit.
• Step 3: Remove the access cap or unscrew the PVC pipe to access your AC drain line.
• Step 4: Using your wet/dry vac, remove the clog and any trapped water.

How To Prevent Air Conditioning Leaks

The best way to prevent a leaking air conditioner is through annual air conditioning maintenance from Penguin Air, Plumbing & Electrical.

During your annual AC maintenance appointment, your Penguin technician will change your air filter, inspect your drain pan for wear and tear, check and clear your condensate drain line, and more!

An AC tune-up helps you avoid unnecessary clogs, buildup, and other damage that can cause a wet air filter. Additional benefits of annual service from an HVAC professional include:

• Extended system life span
• Reduced repair requests
• Increased reliability
• Improved overall performance
• Enhanced energy efficiency

If it’s been over a year since your last service appointment, call (480) 747-6800 and ask about our maintenance membership program, the Penguin Plan, or schedule AC maintenance online.