Can We Use AC When Water Is Leaking?

Like most homeowners, when you see water dripping from your air conditioner, your first instinct is to panic.

But before calling a repair technician, you should know a few things about how your AC works and what to do if it leaks.

It is usually perfectly normal for your air conditioner to drip water. It is one of the ways that your AC unit helps keep your home cool and comfortable.

However, if you still have concerns about this, then read on.

Below are some key points you need to know about why your air conditioner leaks water and what to do if it starts happening.

I will also share insight on whether you can still use your AC if it leaks water.

Can We Use AC When Water Is Leaking?

As I said before, drip water is perfectly typical for your AC unit. It is one of the ways that your AC unit helps keep your home cool and comfortable.

The water that drips from your AC unit is called condensation. It is created when the warm air inside your home comes into contact with the cold coils in your AC unit.

When this happens, the water vapor in the air turns into liquid water, which drips down into a drain pan.

So, if you see AC water dripping from your unit, do not panic! It is most likely just condensation, and there is no need to call a repair technician. Hence, in this case, you can use your AC perfectly fine.

Should I Turn Off the AC If Leaking Water?

Generally, no. But if you see water dripping from your AC unit and it is not condensation, you should immediately turn off your AC unit and call a repair technician.

There are a few reasons why your AC unit might leak water that is not condensation. The most common cause is that the drain pan is full or blocked.

The drain pan is where the condensation from your AC unit collects before it is drained out of your home. If the drain pan fills with water, it can overflow and leak into your home.

Another reason your AC unit might leak water is a frozen evaporator coil. The evaporator coil absorbs heat from your home.

If the evaporator coil gets too cold, it can cause the water vapor in the air to condense and freeze on the coil. It can cause ice build-up and eventually cause leaking water from your air conditioner.

What To Do If Water Is Leaking From AC?

If you see water leaking from your AC unit, you should first turn off your AC unit. Once your AC unit is turned off, look at the drain pan to see if it is full or blocked.

If the drain pan is full or blocked, empty it and clean it with a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a pipe cleaner or other small object to clear debris blocking the drain hole.

Once the drain pan is empty and clear, turn on your AC unit and check if the leak has stopped. If the leak has not stopped, it is most likely due to a frozen evaporator coil.

Call a repair technician to thaw the coil and fix the problem if this happens. Of course, you can also do this yourself if you have the know-how. But, if your skills are not up to par, then professional help is necessary.

However, if the leak does not stop or you see water leaking from your AC unit, and it is not condensation, you should immediately turn off your AC unit and call a repair technician.

Can AC Water Make You Sick?

No, AC water cannot make you sick. The water that drips from your AC unit is called condensation.

It is created when the warm air inside your home comes into contact with the cold coils in your AC unit.

When this happens, the water vapor in the air turns into liquid water, which drips down into a drain pan. It will not adversely affect you if you just let it be.

However, it is still better to dispose of it as water for your plants or pour it on the soil. It is to prevent the mosquitoes from laying their eggs in the water.