AC Leaking Water?
Water around your indoor AC unit is a common problem with several possible causes. Here's what to check.
⚠️ Important: Turn AC off if leaking heavily to prevent water damage to floors and ceilings.
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Check These First (DIY)
Before calling for service, try these quick troubleshooting steps.
Check air filter
Dirty filter can cause coil to freeze, then melt and overflow drain pan.
Check drain line
PVC pipe from indoor unit should drip outside. If not dripping, may be clogged.
Check for ice on unit
If coils are frozen, that's your water source. See "AC Freezing Up" guide.
Inspect drain pan
Secondary drain pan under unit may have cracks or holes.
Turn off AC if heavily leaking
Prevent water damage while you diagnose or wait for technician.
Tried everything above and still having issues?
Our technicians can diagnose the problem in about 30 minutes.
Schedule Service: (704) 821-3632Common Causes & Repair Costs
What might be wrong and what it typically costs to fix.
| Cause | Likelihood | Cost | DIY? |
|---|---|---|---|
Clogged Condensate Drain Line Algae/mold blocks drain, causing water backup. Most common cause. | Very Common | $200-$300 | Pro |
Dirty Air Filter Causing Freeze Filter restricts airflow → coil freezes → ice melts → overflow. | Very Common | $5-$30 | ✓ Yes |
Damaged/Rusted Drain Pan Old drain pan cracks or rusts through. | Common (older units) | $150-$300 | Pro |
Disconnected Drain Line PVC drain line came loose from unit. | Moderate | $50-$150 | Pro |
Low Refrigerant Causes freezing and subsequent melting/overflow. | Moderate | $200-$800 | Pro |
Condensate Pump Failure If unit is in basement, pump lifts water out. Pump failure = backup. | Less Common | $150-$300 | Pro |
Clogged Condensate Drain Line
ProAlgae/mold blocks drain, causing water backup. Most common cause.
Dirty Air Filter Causing Freeze
DIYFilter restricts airflow → coil freezes → ice melts → overflow.
Damaged/Rusted Drain Pan
ProOld drain pan cracks or rusts through.
Disconnected Drain Line
ProPVC drain line came loose from unit.
Low Refrigerant
ProCauses freezing and subsequent melting/overflow.
Condensate Pump Failure
ProIf unit is in basement, pump lifts water out. Pump failure = backup.
Diagnose by Symptom
Describe what you're experiencing to narrow down the cause.
"Water dripping directly from indoor unit"
Likely cause: Clogged drain line, damaged drain pan, or frozen coil melting.
"Water on floor near unit, not from unit directly"
Likely cause: Secondary drain pan overflow or drain line clogged downstream.
"Water stain on ceiling below AC"
Likely cause: Attic unit drain pan overflow—drain line likely clogged.
"Ice on coils AND water on floor"
Likely cause: Frozen coil is melting. Turn off AC, let thaw, check filter.
Our Repair Pricing
Upfront, honest pricing. No surprises.
$89
Diagnostic Fee
Waived with repair
$200-$800
Most Repairs
20-45 minutes
Response Time
30-50%
Less Than Big Co's
* Prices shown are typical ranges. Final price depends on specific diagnosis.
Serving the Charlotte Metro Area
Same-day emergency service available • Response in 20-45 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my AC leaking water inside the house?
The most common cause is a clogged condensate drain line. Your AC removes humidity from the air, producing 5-20 gallons of water per day in humid Charlotte summers. This water normally drains outside via a PVC pipe. When the line clogs (algae, mold, debris), water backs up and overflows inside. Cost to clear: $200-$300.
Is AC water leak an emergency?
A small drip isn't an emergency, but heavy leaking should be addressed quickly to prevent water damage to floors, walls, and ceilings. Turn off the AC to stop the flow. For ceiling leaks (attic units), this is more urgent—water can damage drywall and create mold issues. Call for same-day service.
How much does it cost to fix an AC water leak?
Drain line cleaning: $200-$300. If the drain pan is damaged: $150-$300. If freezing is the cause, may need refrigerant recharge: $200-$800. Our $89 diagnostic identifies the specific cause.
Can I unclog the AC drain line myself?
You can try: Locate the drain line outside (PVC pipe near outdoor unit or dripping from wall), use a wet/dry vac to suction from the end, or pour diluted bleach down the drain access point inside. If these don't work, professional cleaning is needed—we use compressed air and special cleaners.
How can I prevent AC water leaks?
Change your air filter monthly to prevent freezing. Pour 1 cup of bleach down the drain line every 3 months to prevent algae buildup. Annual maintenance includes drain line cleaning—our Kodiak Care Club ($19.95/month) covers this plus 15% off repairs.
Related Troubleshooting Guides
AC Still Leaking?
We'll find and fix the source. $89 diagnostic (waived with repair). Same-day service.
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