Why Is My AC Dripping Water? Common Causes and Solutions in Fort Myers

If you've noticed water dripping from your air conditioner, you're not alone. AC water leaks are one of the most common issues homeowners face in Fort Myers and throughout Lee County. While a small amount of condensation is normal, excessive dripping or pooling water around your unit signals a problem that needs attention.

At Big Air Heat and AC, we've helped countless homeowners in Southwest Florida diagnose and fix AC water leaks. In this guide, we'll walk you through the most common causes of a dripping air conditioner and what you can do about it.

Understanding Why Your AC Produces Water

First, it's important to know that your air conditioning system naturally produces condensation as it cools your home. The evaporator coil inside your AC unit gets cold, and when warm, humid air passes over it, moisture condenses—just like water droplets form on a cold glass of iced tea on a hot Florida day.

This condensation normally drains away through your AC's condensate drain line into a drain pan and then outside your home. When you see water dripping where it shouldn't be, something in this drainage process has gone wrong.

Common Causes of AC Water Leaks

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

This is the #1 cause of AC water leaks. Over time, your condensate drain line can become clogged with algae, mold, dirt, and debris. When the line is blocked, water backs up and has nowhere to go except overflowing from the drain pan or leaking into your home.

Signs of a clogged drain line:

• Water pooling around your indoor AC unit

• Musty odors near your air handler

• Your AC shuts off unexpectedly (many units have overflow sensors)

2. Frozen Evaporator Coil

When your evaporator coil freezes, it will eventually thaw, causing excess water that your drain system can't handle. A frozen coil usually results from restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels.

Signs of a frozen coil:

• Ice buildup on the refrigerant lines

• Reduced cooling performance

• Excessive water dripping when the ice melts

3. Cracked or Overflowing Drain Pan

The drain pan sits under your indoor AC unit to catch condensation. If the pan is cracked, rusted, or damaged, water will leak through. In older systems (typically 12-15 years or more), drain pans can deteriorate and develop holes.

4. Dirty Air Filter

In Florida's dusty environment, a clogged air filter restricts airflow over your evaporator coil, which can cause it to freeze. When the ice melts, you'll see water dripping. Changing your air filter regularly is one of the simplest ways to prevent AC problems.

5. Low Refrigerant

When your AC is low on refrigerant due to a leak, the pressure drops and can cause your evaporator coil to freeze. As mentioned above, frozen coils lead to excess water when they thaw.

6. Improper Installation

If your AC unit isn't level, water may not drain properly from the condensate pan. Additionally, if the condensate line wasn't installed with the proper slope, water can't flow out as it should and may back up into your home.

What to Do If Your AC Is Dripping Water

Immediate Steps:

1. Turn off your AC to prevent water damage and further issues

2. Soak up any standing water with towels to protect your floors and walls

3. Check your air filter and replace it if it's dirty

4. Look for visible ice on your unit or refrigerant lines

What NOT to Do:

• Don't ignore the problem—water leaks can lead to mold growth and expensive water damage

• Don't attempt to repair refrigerant leaks yourself (this requires EPA certification)

• Don't use harsh chemicals to clear drain lines without professional guidance

Why Professional AC Repair Matters in Fort Myers

While some AC maintenance tasks are DIY-friendly, water leaks often require professional diagnosis and repair. Our Southwest Florida climate puts extra stress on air conditioning systems, and what seems like a simple leak could indicate a more serious underlying problem.

At Big Air Heat and AC, our experienced technicians can:

• Accurately diagnose the source of your AC leak

• Clear clogged drain lines safely and completely

• Check refrigerant levels and repair leaks

• Inspect your entire system for additional issues

• Prevent future water damage to your home

Preventing AC Water Leaks

Regular maintenance is your best defense against AC water leaks. Here's what you can do:

• Schedule annual AC maintenance to catch problems before they start

• Change your air filter every 30-60 days (more often if you have pets or allergies)

• Keep your outdoor unit clean and free of debris

• Pour a cup of vinegar down your condensate drain line every few months to prevent algae buildup

• Check your drain pan periodically for signs of rust or damage

Get Your AC Fixed Today

If your air conditioner is dripping water, don't wait for the problem to get worse. Big Air Heat and AC serves all of Lee County, including Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, and surrounding areas.

We offer $99 diagnostic service to identify exactly what's causing your AC to leak and provide you with clear repair options.

Our services include:

• AC repair for all makes and models

• Preventive maintenance

• Complete AC installation

Call Big Air Heat and AC at (239) 738-1344 to schedule your AC diagnostic appointment today. We'll get your system running properly and keep your home cool and dry all year long.

Big Air Heat and AC - Your trusted HVAC experts serving Fort Myers and all of Lee County, Florida. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a new AC installation, we're here to help. And remember, when you think AC, think Big Air!