Why is water splashing in my window air conditioner?

Author: Miss Beryl Schoen MD  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 30, 2025

If your window air conditioner sounds like water, including running or splashing sounds, it indicates you may have a problem and need air conditioner repair. It might mean your AC isn't training. This could cause the drip pan to overflow and cause a leak.

How to fix window air conditioner spitting water?

The moisture from the AC collects in the drain pan so check that out. There is a drain hole in the window AC; either in the middle or in the center. After you have found the hole, tilt the unit slightly to drain out the excess water. If this doesn't work, it's best to call a technician.

Why is my window air conditioner filling up with water?

Water dripping from an air conditioner is typically due to condensation. When warm air passes over the cold evaporator coils inside the unit, moisture in the air condenses into water droplets. Normally, this water is collected in a drip pan and drained away.

Why does my AC water splash?

The same thing is going on inside the air conditioner. Inside the conditioner there's a very cold metal grille, and a fan blowing the room's air through that grille. The air cools down when it touches the cold metal, and when that happens, it has to drop some of its moisture, and that's the water you see dripping out.

How do I keep water out of my window air conditioner?

Adjust the Angle: - Make sure the air conditioner is tilted slightly to the outside. This helps ensure that condensation drains out rather than pooling inside the unit. Typically, a 1-2 degree angle is recommended. Check the Seals: - Inspect the weather stripping or seals around the window unit.

My Window AC Keeps Spitting Out Water Inside – Reasons and Quick Solutions

How do I stop water from coming out of my air conditioner?

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 to unclog drain on window air conditioner?

If the holes seem clogged or blocked, you can easily clean them out with a pipe cleaner, drain snake, or even a wire hanger. You can also spray the underside of the unit with a hose to dislodge anything stuck underneath.

Why does my window AC sound like water splashing?

If your window air conditioner sounds like water, including running or splashing sounds, it indicates you may have a problem and need air conditioner repair. It might mean your AC isn't training. This could cause the drip pan to overflow and cause a leak.

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.

Where is the drain on a window air conditioner?

The position of the drain hole can vary depending on the model and make of your unit. Generally, the drain hole is located at the bottom of the unit, either at the rear or the side. Check your unit's manual for specific information, or look for a small hole or rubber plug.

What to do when your air conditioner is full of water?

How do you get water out of a drain pan?
  1. Turn off the power supply to AC. ...
  2. Check for leaking from the seams of the unit. ...
  3. Check to see if water is dripping from the drain hose that's located at the back of the unit. ...
  4. Check for blockages in the drainage system. ...
  5. Check for cracks in your unit's drip pan.

How to clean window AC unit without removing?

Yes, you can clean your window AC without removing it. Start by turning off the AC unit. Remove the filter and clean it, then clean the front grill. Next, carefully vacuum the condenser and evaporator coils, then wipe down the drip tray and fan blades.

How long do window AC units last?

Window AC units usually have the shortest lifespan, averaging 8 to 10 years. They are often less expensive but may require more frequent replacement.

Why does my window AC keep filling with water?

It is normal for the base pan in an air conditioner to fill with water. This water comes from moisture collected as the air conditioner draws moisture from the indoor air. It also comes from collected rainwater. At some point, the base pan may be full enough for water to drip out of the back of the air conditioner.

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.

Is it normal for an AC to spray water?

As the slinger ring throws the water against the condenser coils, you may see water spitting, spraying or dripping on the outdoor side of the Air Conditioner. This is normal.

How long can I run my AC if it is leaking water?

As soon as you notice that your air conditioner is leaking, go ahead and turn it off. This is important even if the air in your home doesn't feel any different, because it will stop the flow of water. The more water leaks out of your air conditioner, the more susceptible it becomes to further damage.

Is AC leaking water an emergency?

A leak from your air conditioner can cause significant damage to the system. Whether there's more moisture on or near your AC than usual or water is ponding near the drain line, consider it an emergency. The damage from water can quickly escalate and spread to nearby equipment, materials, and furnishings.

How do I stop my AC from spitting water?

If the air filter in your HVAC system is dirty or clogged, it can restrict airflow and cause the evaporator coil to freeze over. When the coil thaws out, you will see your AC is spitting water. Regular cleaning or replacing your residential HVAC air filter can help prevent this from happening.

How do I get water out of my window AC?

Find the drain hole to remove the excess water. If the hole is plugged or capped, remove it to help pour the water out. Check if the drain hole is clogged or not. If it's clogged, take a bottle brush or a thin wire to clean the debris.

Is it bad if I hear water in my AC?

When your air conditioner unit is operating properly, the water in the drip pan will either evaporate or be drained out through a condensate drain line. If the water in the drip pan has nowhere to go, the drip pan will start to overflow, which will make a splashing or running water sound.

Do window air conditioners need to be drained?

Yes, they must be drained. Most newer models are designed to hold water in a pan with one of the loops of the condenser low enough to touch the water. This cools the condenser down and improves efficiency slightly. On a very humid day, the water will still run through holes on the back of the AC unit.

How do you clean a clogged window air conditioner?

Spray down the interior cabinet and exterior housing with hydrogen peroxide, and use a cloth or rag to wipe down everything you can reach. Use the same spray cleaning solution on the evaporator and condenser coils or an AC coil spray cleaner. Allow the cleaner to air dry or rinse it off with water.

Why does my window air conditioner make a water sound?

The AC Sounds Like Water Is Running

If you hear this water noise, it might mean the evaporator coil has frozen over and is now thawing and dripping water onto the ground. This can happen for a few reasons, including: Dirty air filter: A filter plugged with dust, dirt and other particles blocks airflow.

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