Water leaks around your AC unit during a hot Los Angeles summer can catch any homeowner off guard. One day, the system seems to be running fine. The next, you spot a puddle forming around the indoor unit or dripping from the ceiling vent. It’s not just a mess — it’s a sign something’s wrong. Ignoring a water leak can lead to damage to flooring, walls, ceilings, and the AC unit itself. Even small leaks can indicate a problem that, if left untreated, will cost more in repairs down the line.
These leaks do not fix themselves. They often occur at the worst possible times, like when outdoor temperatures are too high to go a day without cool air. Los Angeles homes rely heavily on their AC units in summer, which makes it even more important to stay alert. Catching the issue early and knowing the right steps to take can help minimize damage and keep your system working longer. Whether it’s a clogged line or a worn part, understanding what’s behind the leak is key.
Common Reasons for Water Leaking from Your AC
If water is pooling around your AC, there’s usually a reason behind it. Leaks rarely happen without a failure somewhere in the system. Some of these issues are minor and easy to address. Others point to larger concerns that need professional help. Here are some of the most common causes of water leaks around indoor and outdoor AC units:
– Clogged condensate drain line: This is one of the most frequent causes of AC-related water leaks. Dirt, dust, mold, or debris can block the drain line that carries moisture away from the unit. When that happens, water backs up and starts leaking from the pan or unit.
– Broken condensate pump: In homes where the AC is located in a basement or another area below the drain line, a small pump helps remove the water. If that pump stops working, the water has nowhere to go and may spill out around the unit.
– Cracked or rusted drain pan: Over time, the pan that collects water from the evaporator coil can crack, rust, or shift. If the condensation has nowhere to go, it will likely leak out onto nearby surfaces.
– Dirty air filters restricting airflow: A clogged air filter can reduce airflow so much that it causes the evaporator coil to freeze. When the ice melts, water may overwhelm the drain system, creating a leak.
– Low refrigerant levels: Just like a dirty filter, low refrigerant causes the coil to get too cold and freeze. Once it starts to thaw, the leftover moisture can leak out through any point it encounters resistance or damage.
In one Los Angeles home, a leak was discovered in the attic, right below the AC unit. The cause? A filter that hadn’t been replaced in over a year. That clogged filter froze the coil, and once the ice melted, the drain pan couldn’t keep up. The issue caused ceiling damage that could have been avoided with a new filter and timely inspection.
Leaks don’t always show up right away. Sometimes they begin inside the unit or at the edges of the drain line and slowly make their way into visible areas. As soon as moisture is spotted under or near your AC, it’s time to act.
What You Should Do First When You Spot a Leak
If you see a leak, don’t leave the system running while you figure it out. Water damage doesn’t pause. Take these steps immediately once a leak is visible:
1. Turn off your AC
Stop the system by switching the thermostat to the off position. Running the system while it leaks can cause more water buildup or damage internal parts.
2. Check the drain pan and drain line
Look underneath the inside AC unit for standing water in the pan. If the pan is full, try to remove the water carefully. Then, see if the drain line is visibly clogged or kinked.
3. Replace or clean the air filter
If you haven’t changed the filter in a while, now’s the time. A clean filter helps maintain airflow and reduces the risk of coil freezing and leaking.
4. Dry the surrounding area
Use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to clean up any visible standing water around the unit. If left too long, this water may seep into walls or flooring and cause costly damage.
5. Call for professional inspection
These steps help limit damage but don’t solve the actual problem. Whether it’s a broken pump or a refrigerant issue, our technicians are equipped to diagnose and fix it. Addressing it sooner helps prevent repeat leaks or worse system damage later.
Handling water leaks quickly and thoroughly helps protect your AC and the comfort of your home. The faster it’s addressed, the fewer problems you’ll have in the long run.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Leaks
Stopping a water leak once is one thing. Keeping it from happening again takes a little more effort, but it’s worth it. Preventive steps go a long way in protecting both the system and your home. A few small habits and inspections each season can help prevent more expensive water issues later on.
Here’s what homeowners in Los Angeles can do to help reduce AC water leaks:
– Schedule routine checks with our professionals. Having the system inspected regularly helps catch blockages, wear, or developing clogs before they become a bigger problem.
– Keep air filters clean. Replace them every one to three months depending on use, pets, and dust levels. Clean filters reduce strain and airflow problems that can cause freezing and moisture buildup.
– Keep the area around your indoor and outdoor units clear of debris. Avoid stacking boxes or stored items near indoor AC cabinets. Outside, make sure plants, leaves, and dust don’t pile up near the unit.
– Watch refrigerant levels. Low refrigerant can cause ice to build on the coils, eventually melting and flooding the drain pan. A technician can check and recharge refrigerant levels if needed.
– Check for standing water after very humid days. Even if it’s a small amount, it could be a sign the drainage is slowing or getting blocked.
One Los Angeles homeowner avoided major repairs this past summer by doing a simple visual check around the indoor unit weekly. They spotted condensation building on the floor and caught the line blockage early. That basic habit gave them time to call for service before any damage took hold.
The dryer the area around the AC unit stays, the better. Regular upkeep isn’t just about comfort. It’s about protecting your house from water spreads that can quietly affect wood flooring, drywall, and carpet.
Ensuring Reliable AC Performance in Los Angeles
Leaks don’t always show up as quickly as loud noises or warm air. That slow drip might seem small at first, but if left alone, it usually turns into a bigger issue. Taking immediate action when you spot moisture and committing to basic maintenance steps can help make sure your unit stays in good shape through the hottest days in Los Angeles.
AC systems are designed to drain water away from your home, not leave you mopping the floor in the middle of summer. Keeping your system operating smoothly often means trusting our professionals to catch and resolve problems that might not be visible at first glance. When small parts begin to fail, or sludge starts clogging the drain line, those early signs matter.
Leaks that keep coming back are usually a signal of a problem deeper inside the system. Whether it’s low refrigerant, a broken pump, or coil icing caused by reduced airflow, the right fix helps stop the cycle before it repeats. Regular service not only helps extend your AC’s lifespan but also keeps water where it belongs — outside the system, never inside your home.
If you want to keep your AC running smoothly and avoid recurring water leaks, Precise Air Systems, Inc. recommends routine check-ups that allow our professionals to spot problems before they grow larger. Learning more about AC maintenance in Los Angeles can help ensure your system remains in top shape throughout the season. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
