Is My AC Leaking Water or Refrigerant?

If you find a pool of water around your air conditioning unit and feel your home isn’t as cool as it used to be, it could be that your AC leaked water or refrigerant. It’s important to learn the difference between these two types of leaks to treat the problem correctly.

In this post, we share tips on how to identify the signs of water and refrigerant leaks and how to deal with them.

Is It Water or Refrigerant?

Water Leaks

There are several reasons your air conditioning unit might be leaking water. A clogged condensate drain line may prevent water from draining properly, leading to an overflow and potential damage to your home. Another common cause is a frozen evaporator coil, which can cause water to drip off when the ice melts. A damaged condensate pump could also result in water leaks, as it’s unable to move the water away from the unit.

Some signs indicating a water leak include pooled water around your air conditioning unit, increased humidity in your home, and mold or mildew growth. Address any of these signs immediately before it leads to more serious issues.

Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks, on the other hand, are usually due to damaged or corroded refrigerant lines, loose connections, or manufacturing defects. Keep an ear out for hissing or bubbling noises from your air conditioning unit, which may indicate a refrigerant leak. Other signs include decreased cooling performance, a frozen evaporator coil, a decrease in your unit’s cooling performance and a sudden surge in your energy bill.

Are Water or Refrigerant Leaks From the AC Dangerous?

Both water and refrigerant leaks from an air conditioning system can pose potential dangers. Water leaks may not be as immediately harmful as refrigerant leaks. However, they can still lead to health hazards such as mold growth and electrical hazards if they come into contact with electrical wiring.

Meanwhile, refrigerant leaks are more immediately dangerous. Exposure to refrigerants can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea and headaches. Prolonged exposure to refrigerant leaks can also cause serious health problems and harm the environment.

Addressing AC Leaks

If you suspect your air conditioning system is leaking water or refrigerant, you must address it right away. Hire qualified HVAC contractors to inspect and repair the leaks. It is never recommended to attempt DIY heating or air conditioning repairs as these can only lead to further damage and potential safety hazards. HVAC contractors are trained and experienced in diagnosing and repairing water and refrigerant leaks, ensuring your home stays comfortable and safe.

If you’re located in Drexel Hill, PA, and suspect your air conditioning system is leaking water or refrigerant, Perfect Degree HVAC is here to help. Our team of experienced technicians is skilled in AC and heating repair and will get your air conditioning functioning efficiently in no time. Contact us at (610) 529-7372 for a consultation.