AC Leaking Water in Oakland

Where leaks start

• Algae or sludge clogging the condensate line
• A cracked or rusted drain pan under the coil
• A condensate pump that quit or has a stuck float
• A frozen coil melting faster than the pan can drain
• A mini-split head hung off level or with a kinked drain

What to do now

Turn the cooling off and mop up. If the drain has a cleanout cap near the coil, a cup of white vinegar can loosen a slow clog. Check that the condensate pump is plugged in and its reservoir is not full. If water returns once the system runs again, have it looked at.

In an Oakland house with the furnace under the floor, water can drip into the crawlspace for a long time before anyone notices. A musty smell from the registers is a reason to look under the house.

Questions about AC Dripping Water in Oakland

Is a small drip a big deal?

Over time, yes. Constant moisture rots subfloors, stains ceilings and feeds mold.

Why does my mini-split drip only on some days?

On humid days it pulls more water from the air. If the drain is partly blocked or the head is not level, the overflow shows up then.