Water is an essential element for humans. However, for porous materials such as wood floorings, baseboards, and ceiling, it is a great enemy. Water damage can happen anytime. Some sources of water damage are explainable, such as leaks from washing machines, sink or from a natural disaster. However, as a homeowner, you wouldn’t think that your air conditioner can be a great source of water damage. And the big question comes out, “What is causing my air conditioner to leak?”.
But before we learn the causes of water damage from air conditioners, let us understand first how water is forming in the air conditioners.
Why Is Water Forming In The Air Conditioners
Air conditioners have evaporator coil that cools down warm and humid indoor air that is blown over it. Similar to the droplets that are formed on a cold grass during hot weather, an air conditioner squeezes moisture and form on the coil. The moisture drips down into a drain pan and to a drain line outside your house
Reasons For Water Damage Caused By Air Conditioners
- the condensate drain line is clogged
A clogged condensate drain line is the primary suspect of water damage from air conditioners. The drain gets clogged with dirt and debris. When this happens, the water backs up to your home causing the leak and a rupture of the line. One of the methods you can use to unclog the condensate line is by using a wet/dry vac. However, it is still best to leave this job to professionals.
- damaged or rusted drain pan
If you have been using your air condition for quite a long time, the drain may be damaged or rusted through. That is why water just leaks out from your air conditioner. In this case, the pan needs to be replaced.
- malfunctioned condensate pump
If you have your AC unit installed in your basement, then you have a condensate pump that pulls out the water outside. If you have this setup, and your pump has malfunctioned, the water isn’t being pumped outside. The pan overflows causing water damage to your floors, subfloor, and even walls. If you are knowledgeable about it, you might opt to repair it. But if a replacement is required, call in professionals.
- too little refrigerant
Low refrigerant can lower the cooling temperature on the AC system, causing the cooling coil to freeze over. Similar to the result of having a malfunctioned condensate pump, when coil melts, the water overflows from the drain pan. This can then cause water damage to the surrounding areas.
If you notice severe refrigerant leak, then the entire AC unit has to be replaced.
How Do I Repair Water Damage From Air Conditioner
There are two things to consider when dealing with the repair of water damage from air conditioners; the severity of the damage and the root cause.
If you are only dealing with a small leak, causing the floor or subflooring to get wet, then you might just need a wet/dry vac to do the job. The affected drywall can also be dried up.
If significant water damage happens, causing your ceiling to get saggy, then you might need to call in professionals. They are equipped and skilled in fixing water damage caused by air conditioners.
Catching the damage as early as you can play also an important role in dealing with water damage from air conditioners. Moreover, when the damage has resulted in mold growth, seek professionals’ advice. If a large portion has been affected, it has to be replaced. But, if mold has just started to grow, the affected area should be thoroughly sanitized.
Does My Insurance Cover Water Damage From Air Conditioners?
As a homeowner, you might wonder if this type of water damage is covered by your homeowner’s insurance. The answer is not always a “yes”. Your insurance company will only cover the related damage if the cause is accidental. But if the damage happens due to lack of maintenance, old or outdated equipment, and faulty installation, then the insurance company will most likely not cover the damage.
To understand more of your insurance coverage, check your policy today and talk to your agent about this.
How To Prevent Water Damage From Air Conditioners?
Similar to other equipment in your house, routine maintenance is what you need to prevent water damage from air conditioners. Doing a simple regular check of your AC can prevent you from severe water damage and costly repairs. Check your maintenance box and consider doing these things;
- Check moisture in the condensation box.
- Clean the condensation line ideally every 3-6 months.
- Replace your air conditioner filter frequently
- Check the level of refrigerant often
- Install a secondary drain line or drain pan overflow
Dealing With Water Damage Caused By Air Conditioners?
We understand the difficulty and stress of dealing with water damage. Let our professionals handle this problem. We are a team of experts in dealing with water damage from air conditioners. We will deal with every bit of the damage, restoration, and even mold removal if needed. When you need professionals to deal with it, contact us at 951-309-2123.
