Are you wondering what is creating excess condensation from an air conditioner? It is normal to see a little condensation build from an air conditioner. However, when it is too much, and there is too much water dripping from the system, there might be a problem to fix.

Below you can find the main reasons for excess condensation, but if you need more help figuring out what is wrong with your air conditioner, check this article. 

The main reasons for condensation build up

The air conditioner evaporator coil cools warm air when it passes through, and during this process, the moisture will drip into a pan that is connected to a drain line that brings the water so created outside of the house. 

If you see a little water outside, there is probably nothing to worry about. However, suppose the moisture and the condensation are too much. 

In that case, you have to consider what makes your air conditioner create too much condensation and call a professional for help in case of necessity. 

Here are all the reasons that make your air conditioner create too much condensation:

1. Dirty filters

Dirty filters are the most common cause of problems with the air conditioner system, including excessive condensation. Dirty filters block the airflow into the air conditioner and into the evaporator coil, which will get too cold and freeze. 

When the air conditioner stops, the ice formed on the evaporation coil will melt, creating water leaks. The excessive water will drip into the condensation pan, and since it is too much, it will overflow. 

Dirty filters create other problems such as unwanted bacteria and excessive dust circulating in the system and the house, leading to respiratory problems. To prevent any such situation, you have to change the filters regularly; better if you do it every 3 to 6 months.

2. Problems with the condensate pump

If your air conditioner is connected with a pump (typically situated in the basement) and if the pump is not working, your air conditioner can experience drainage issues, and water could leak into the basement.

3. Broken Drain Pan

After a while, the drain pan can become rusty and oxidized, and for this reason, it will not hold water any longer. If this happens, water can fall through the pan creating internal damage to the air conditioner system and excessive condensation. 

To prevent this problem, you should inspect the drain pan and line regularly or have a professional technician inspect the system at least once every year and do regular maintenance. 

4. Clogged drain line

Dust and debris can cumulate in the drain line blocking it and preventing water from getting through. If that happens, condensation and water can leak into the unit. To avoid this situation, you should clean the drain line regularly or have it cleaned by a professional.

5. Low Refrigerant- Condensation From Air Conditioner

Low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coil to freeze because the system will not work as efficiently as it should. As a result, ice will form on the coil, which will melt when the system pauses. 

When the ice melts, it will result in too much water flowing into the condensation pan, resulting in overflowing.

The first signs of low refrigerant are warm air coming out of the air conditioner or the fact that the house takes too long to cool down. In general, low refrigerant levels are caused by refrigerant leaks. The remedy is to find the leaks, seal them, and refill the refrigerant. 

Refilling the refrigerant is commonly done by professionals. 

6. Dislodged or Broken Drain Line

It can happen for the drain line to crack just because of the usage and age, causing water to spill and causing damage to the house or the unit. In addition, the drain line can become dislodged, interrupting the normal flow of condensation down the line and causing water to overflow. 

7. Broken AC Unit Parts

If the air conditioner has manufacturing problems or some broken parts, it can be the reason for excessive condensation and water leaking. Damaged parts could be the condensate pan, the pump, lack of insulation, etc.

Specifically, insulation can be the cause of water leaking from the system since a lack of it can cause excessive condensation. But even unfitted seals or unfitted duct joints of an AC system can create excessive condensation since hot air can enter quickly and get in contact with cold air. 

8. Wrong Installation

It is possible that nothing is wrong with the system, but maybe it was incorrectly installed. This is creating various issues, one of which is excessive condensation. For example, an incorrectly sized drain pan can be the cause of dripping water from the air conditioner system. 

9. It Is Cold

If outside is cold, it is easier for the evaporator coil to freeze, and when the ice melts, it creates water leaks. 

What You Can Do To Resolve Excess Condensation from An Air Conditioner

You can take simple actions to prevent extra condensation from building up. For example, a simple action is to change the filters regularly and clean the drain line and the pan. 

In addition, yearly tune-ups are essential in preventing any issue with the air conditioner or resolving existing problems. More complex situations require the assistance of a trained technician who can perform actions such as sealing leaks and other technical things. 

Conclusion 

Condensation can form when the air conditioner is turned on, and it is not a reason for worry. However, excessive condensation and water leaking can imply significant issues with the air conditioner. 

Based on the points listed above, you could determine where the problem could be.

If it is a matter of simple actions such as changing the filters or an easy clean-up, you could perform the resolution yourself. However, if you are unsure what needs to be done or still have doubts about what could be the problem, it is always better to contact a qualified technician.