Why is my AC dripping condensation?

Author: Mrs. Demetris Rempel  |  Last update: Tuesday, January 6, 2026

A clogged condensate drain line is one of the most common causes of air conditioner water leakage. Over time, this line can become clogged with algae, dirt, dust, and debris. When this happens, the line backs up and overflows from the drain pan, causing the water to leak into your home.

How do I stop my air conditioner from dripping condensation?

To prevent an air conditioner from leaking water inside and outside its case, ensure regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing the air filter and clearing the condensate drain line to avoid blockages. Check for proper installation with a slight tilt towards the outside to allow proper drainage.

Is it normal for an AC condensation line to drip?

Completely normal. The evap coil removes water from the air and this naturally drains down the condensate line. Carry on.

How do you fix water dripping from AC?

Steps to Take If Your AC Is Leaking
  1. Turn Off the AC Unit. Before you start to look at your air conditioning unit, turn it off. ...
  2. Clean Up the Water. ...
  3. Determine the Cause of the Leak. ...
  4. Replace the Air Filter. ...
  5. Check Refrigerant Levels. ...
  6. Unclog or Replace the Drain Pan. ...
  7. Call an HVAC Professional.

Why do water droplets come out of my air conditioner?

When your aircon is running the moisture in the air condenses on the internal components. Water dripping from the aircon unit is entirely normal. But if it is excessive to the point where the water is causing stains on the walls or it is pooling under the unit, there is definitely something wrong with the system.

Fix AC Leaking Water Inside the House in 10 Seconds | Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips

Can I still use my AC if it's leaking water?

Can I still use my AC if it's leaking water? It's not recommended to use your AC if it's leaking water. Water leaks often indicate problems like a clogged drain line, frozen evaporator coils, or a damaged condensate pan. Running the AC could worsen the issue, leading to water damage or further mechanical problems.

How do I fix my AC water drop?

Resolution
  1. Increase the temperature. It is generally recommended to set it to 26°C.
  2. Run the Dry mode for 3-4 hours, then switch to the Cooling mode (check the inflow of external air/humidity).
  3. Set the cooling fan speed to 'Med' or 'High'.
  4. Adjust the blade angle.

Is water dripping from AC harmful?

It depends on whether it's leaking water or refrigerant. Water leaking from your air conditioner isn't dangerous but can cause a lot of damage to your home. On the other hand, a coolant leak is dangerous for you and the environment. In either case, fixing a leak will require skilled air conditioning repair.

How to unclog a condensate drain?

To unclog an AC drain line, turn off the power to the unit. Locate the drain line and use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out the clog. Flush the line with water using a garden hose or cup of water. Check and clean the drain pan under the indoor unit.

How much water should be dripping from AC unit?

When the summer season is in full swing and humidity is high, it's normal for your air conditioner to drain anywhere between 5 and 20 gallons of water each day.

Is condensation on AC lines normal?

Condensation is normal for properly running air conditioning systems. Excess condensation, like sweating ducts and drips from outside the unit cabinet indicates a problem with your unit and points to an HVAC system issue that requires emergency HVAC repair service.

What to do with AC water runoff?

The water produced form the air conditioner is purely condensate water like that from a cold glass of ice tea on a hot summer day and is totally safe to use and harvest in a bucket outside of your home to water your plants.

How much condensation from AC is normal?

So, how much water should drain from an air conditioner? On average, a functioning air conditioner in a typical home can drain anywhere from five to 20 gallons of water per day. Keep in mind that these numbers are ballpark figures, so don't feel alarmed if your unit shows slightly different behavior.

How to stop condensation from dripping?

Condensation in the home can be stopped by reducing humidity and increasing ventilation. Less humidity in the air means less water vapour to turn into condensation. And increased ventilation provides a way for water in the air to escape.

Is it normal for AC condensation line to drip?

In conclusion, it's normal for your AC to drip water outside as it's a byproduct of the cooling and dehumidification process. However, if the unit leaking water is excessive or unusual, this could indicate a problem.

Is condensation in the air conditioner safe?

This study examines the quality of condensate water derived from air conditioner systems and concludes that, in the absence of appropriate treatment, water is not suitable for consumption. Boiling and filtering AC water. AC water is unsafe to drink without Treatment.

How to know if an AC drain line is clogged?

What Are the Symptoms of a Clogged AC Drain Line?
  1. Standing water near your air conditioner's condenser unit.
  2. A moldy smell around the drain or from your system's vents and registers.
  3. Water damage around the unit.
  4. An air conditioner that shuts off unexpectedly.
  5. An HVAC system that is not effectively cooling your home.

How to fix AC leaking water?

Here are 5 possible solutions to fix the issue
  1. Seal or Replace the Drain Pan. A damaged drain pan must be meticulously and firmly sealed. ...
  2. Clean the Drain Line. Additionally, you must regularly clear your drain pipe.
  3. Fix Condensation Build-Up. Condensation build-up can cause water leaks from the AC. ...
  4. Correct Installation.

How much does it cost to unclog an AC drain line?

Flush Condensate Drain Line

The repair cost to have the drain line flushed runs between $75 to $250.

Can I still use my AC even if it's leaking water?

While you can still use a leaky air conditioner, it's not recommended for extended use. You should turn off the system to explore different parts of your AC to find the problem, which will most likely be one of the 13 common reasons below.

How to clear a clogged AC drain line?

How to Unclog Your AC Drain Lines in 9 Steps
  1. Turn Off Your Air Conditioner. ...
  2. Locate the Drain Line Pipe. ...
  3. Remove the Cap From the Pipe. ...
  4. Inspect the Drain Line Pipe. ...
  5. Unclog the Drain Line Pipe. ...
  6. Pour in Vinegar. ...
  7. Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner. ...
  8. Reconnect the Cap to the Drain Line Pipe.

Why is my AC dripping water inside the room?

One of the most common causes of leakage is clogged drainage. The culprit can be dirt, dust, and fungus that block the water to flow. The water will try to find the other way out, causing the AC to leak. If you let this problem sit for too long, this may cause a breathing problem.

Should AC always drip water?

While a little condensation is normal, larger amounts of water continuously dripping from your air conditioner can be a cause for concern. And the reason for this can be anything from the air conditioner's filter to its air vents. Or you may need to replace it.

How to stop water dripping from an AC vent?

If the cause of the dripping is condensation, you can insulate the air ducts to prevent warm air from meeting cold air. If the cause of the dripping is a clogged condensate drain line, you can clear the clog with a wire, wet vac, or by pouring a water/vinegar solution in the pipes.

Why is my AC blowing water droplets?

Dust, dirt, and other debris can clog the drainage system that carries water from your AC and away from your home. When this happens, it can cause your system to leak. Damaged Drain Pan: If you inspected your condensate line and it's free of blockages, your drain pan may be damaged.

Previous article
Can you view the SimpliSafe camera on a phone?
Next article
Is it safe to use dryer sheets on your car?