Why Is My AC Leaking Water? (And What to Do Before It Gets Worse)

HVAC Tip: When Your AC Leaks Water… It’s Not Just “Condensation

Every time the temperatures crank up around Hood River, we start getting calls about mysterious water puddles near the AC.
And here’s the deal — the most common cause of AC leaking water is a clogged condensate drain line.

What’s a Condensate Line?

Your AC pulls moisture from the air as it cools your home. That moisture turns into water and is supposed to drain out through a little pipe — the condensate line.

But when that line gets clogged (often with algae, dust, or pet hair), the water can’t drain. So it backs up… and starts leaking inside your home.

Illustration of a AC leaking water inside a home — most commonly caused by a clogged condensate line

AC Leaking Water - What to Watch For:

  • Water pooling near your indoor unit
  • Musty smells or water stains
  • A unit that shuts off unexpectedly (some systems have safety shut-offs)
  • Ceiling or wall damage around the AC area

What You Can Do:

If we catch AC leaking water early, a clogged line is usually a quick fix. But left too long, it can lead to serious water damage and mold issues.

Think you’ve got a leak?
Text us at 541-387-3373 to book a service call. We’ll take a look, clear the line if needed, and help keep your summer cool and dry.

Serving Hood River and the Gorge since 1993. Friendly, local, five-star service — every time.

— Tim, Jairo, and the McDowell & Son crew

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