If you’ve found water around your AC unit and started asking yourself, why is my air conditioner leaking water?, you’re not alone. At Sub Zero Temp Control, this is one of the most common questions we get from Vancouver homeowners—especially when things heat up in late spring and early summer.
A little condensation on the outside of your unit is totally normal. But if there’s actual dripping or puddling, it means something’s not working as it should. The good news? Most causes are fixable when caught early.
Let’s break down the most likely reasons and what to do next.
Clogged Drain Line: A Top Cause of AC Leaks
When we’re called out to investigate water leaks, a clogged drain line is often the culprit. Over time, dust, algae, mold, and debris can block the condensate line. Since that line is supposed to carry excess moisture away, any obstruction means water backs up.
In many homes around Vancouver—especially those with lots of trees or summer humidity—this issue shows up more than people expect. And when the drain line clogs, water can overflow and damage floors, ceilings, or even electrical components.
If your air conditioner is located in a closet or attic, which is common in many local homes, this kind of leak can quickly spread unnoticed. That’s why it’s one of the first things we check.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water from the Bottom?
If you notice water collecting at the base of your air handler, there’s a good chance the drain pan is cracked or rusted. This pan sits underneath the evaporator coil and is designed to collect moisture. But over time, especially in older systems, it can degrade.
We often see this in homes across Vancouver’s older neighborhoods, where HVAC systems may not have been updated in years. A damaged pan won’t hold water—and eventually, it spills.
This issue might seem minor at first, but it can grow into a bigger problem if ignored.
Dirty Air Filter Can Lead to Excess Water
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that a dirty air filter can cause leaks. Here’s why: a clogged filter restricts airflow. As a result, the evaporator coil can freeze up. When it finally thaws, the sudden rush of water can overwhelm the drain pan.
If you’re wondering why your air conditioner leaking water and you haven’t changed your filter in a few months, that could be the reason. The fix is simple—just replace the filter and schedule a quick inspection to make sure there’s no lasting damage.
Low Refrigerant Causes Coil Freezing and Leaks
Another sneaky cause? Low refrigerant levels. When your system doesn’t have enough refrigerant, the evaporator coil gets too cold. That leads to icing. Once the ice melts, the excess water goes right into the pan—or worse, out of it.
Low refrigerant usually comes with other warning signs. If you’ve noticed your AC blowing warm air or running longer than normal, don’t wait. Refrigerant isn’t something homeowners should handle on their own, so give our team at Sub Zero Temp Control a call. We’ll safely check levels and recharge the system if needed.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water in a New System?
Leaks in brand-new systems are frustrating—and unfortunately, not that uncommon. In many cases, they stem from improper installation. If the system isn’t level, for example, water may not flow correctly through the drain line.
We’ve seen this happen in new builds around the outskirts of Vancouver, where subcontracted HVAC work doesn’t always meet the highest standards. Even small imbalances can send water in the wrong direction.
During our inspections, we check all those little details—because the smallest thing can cause the biggest headaches down the line.
Can Vancouver’s Weather Make It Worse?
Yes, absolutely. Our Pacific Northwest humidity might not feel as sticky as the Deep South, but it still impacts how much moisture your AC system pulls from the air. During warmer days, your unit works harder to remove that humidity.
If your system is already struggling—say, from a clogged filter or undercharged refrigerant—that extra moisture can push it over the edge. That’s why we recommend seasonal maintenance. A quick tune-up from Sub Zero Temp Control can help prevent problems before they start.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water? Call Sub Zero
So, why is your air conditioner leaking water? As you’ve seen, the reasons vary—from something as simple as a dirty filter to more serious issues like refrigerant loss or installation problems. No matter the cause, water collecting around your AC signals a problem you shouldn’t ignore.
At Sub Zero Temp Control, we specialize in fast, reliable AC repair for homes across Vancouver and the surrounding areas. We don’t just patch the issue—we find the root cause and fix it for good.
Call us today and we’ll make sure your system stays dry, efficient, and built to last through every season.
