Why Is My Split System Leaking Water?
ater dripping from your split system could mean more than a simple overflow. From blocked drains and dirty filters to refrigerant leaks, several issues can cause unwanted water damage. This guide explains what’s behind those leaks and when to book professional split system cleaning to keep your home cool and dry.
Seeing water dripping from your split system is never a good sign. While it might look harmless, water leaks can be a symptom of a much bigger issue. Ignoring it can lead to damage to your walls, furniture, and flooring, not to mention poor performance from your air conditioner. We will walk you through the most common reasons your split system could be leaking and what you can do about it.
1. Clogged Drain Line
A clogged drain line is one of the most common reasons for water leaking from a split system. Over time, dust, dirt, mould, or even insects can clog the line that carries condensation away from the unit. When the line gets blocked, water has nowhere to go and starts backing up inside the indoor unit.
Signs of a blocked drain line include:
Water dripping from the indoor unit
Musty smell around the unit
Stains or damp patches on the wall
You can try flushing the pipe using a wet/dry vacuum, but if the blockage is deep, it is best to call a professional air conditioner cleaning service or schedule a full split system cleaning.
2. Dirty Air Filters
Clogged filters restrict airflow across the evaporator coil. When airflow is blocked, the coil gets too cold and starts to freeze. Once the unit stops and the ice melts, the excess water can overflow the drain pan, causing leaks.
How to tell if your air filters are dirty:
Weak airflow from the unit
Visible dust or grime on the filters
Higher than usual energy bills
Cleaning or replacing your filters every few weeks helps prevent this and keeps your system running efficiently. Regular aircon cleaning or split system air conditioner cleaning also helps avoid this problem from building up unnoticed.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
When the refrigerant is low, it can cause the pressure in your system to drop. This leads to the evaporator coil freezing over. Just like with dirty filters, when that ice melts, it can result in leaking water.
Look for these signs of low refrigerant:
Hissing or bubbling noise
Weak cooling even at the lowest temperature
Ice buildup on the coil or pipes
Handling refrigerant is not a DIY job. You will need a licensed technician to top it up and check for leaks.
4. Broken or Rusted Drain Pan
The drain pan collects condensation from your indoor unit before it flows out through the drain pipe. If this pan is cracked, rusted, or misaligned, it will not hold water properly and may cause leaks.
What to look for:
Pooled water under the unit
Visible rust or cracks in the pan
Leaks even when filters are clean and the drain pipe is clear
Older systems are more prone to this problem. In many cases, the pan will need replacing by a technician.
5. Poor Installation or Faulty Tilt Angle
Split systems must be installed at a slight angle to help water flow toward the drain outlet. If the unit is level or tilted the wrong way, condensation can build up and spill inside your home.
Clues that point to poor installation:
The new unit starts leaking soon after installation
Water leaks without any blockages or dirt
The indoor unit does not sit flush against the wall
This is a problem that needs professional adjustment. A qualified technician can correct the alignment and stop further leaks.
6. Clogged or Mouldy Coils
Your split system’s evaporator coil pulls moisture from the air, which normally drains away. But when the coil gets dirty or mouldy, the water cannot drip off properly. This causes pooling and leaking inside the unit.
Symptoms of clogged coils:
Unusual smells when the unit runs
Visible buildup on or around the coils
Leaks despite clean filters and a clear drain
Regular air conditioner cleaning or professional split system cleaning services help prevent this and ensure proper airflow and drainage.
7. Damaged Insulation
The insulation around your refrigerant pipes prevents condensation from forming on the outside of the pipes. If that insulation is torn, missing, or deteriorated, water can start to drip from the pipes themselves.
Things to watch for:
Water dripping along the wall or pipe casing
Damp spots on the wall where pipes run
No obvious source of water from the unit itself
This issue often gets overlooked, but it can be fixed easily by replacing the damaged insulation.
What You Can Do Right Now
If your split system is leaking, turn off the unit to prevent more water from spreading. Then try these quick checks:
Inspect and clean the filters
Check for visible blockages in the drain pipe
Look for water pooling near the unit or walls
If the issue is not obvious or keeps happening, it is time to bring in a technician for a proper inspection and repair.
Stop Leaks Before They Start
Regular air conditioner cleaning keeps your split system running smoothly and prevents many of the issues that lead to leaks. A professional service will clean coils, flush the drain, and check for early signs of wear or poor installation.
For the best results, schedule a split system air conditioner cleaning service at least once a year. It is the easiest way to keep your home cool and dry while avoiding costly water damage.
To protect your home and stay cool without the mess, book AirCon-Men for a full air conditioning cleaning. Our experienced technicians will get your system back in shape and stop leaks before they cause damage.
FAQs
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Not usually, but it can damage walls, floors, and the unit itself. It can also lead to mold growth indoors.
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Every two to four weeks, especially during peak usage.
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You can clean filters and check the drain pipe, but internal repairs or refrigerant work should be left to professionals.
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It might be related to humidity, usage time, or intermittent blockages. A technician can help find the exact cause.
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Costs vary by unit type and service needed, but usually range from $100 to $250.
