Is Your A/C Leaking Water? It Might Be a Clogged Condensate Drain Line

It’s the middle of a hot, humid July in Melbourne, and the last thing you want is a problem with your air conditioner. But there it is—a dreaded puddle forming near your indoor unit.

Before you panic, know this: you’re not alone. This is one of the most common summer plumbing calls we get at Burton Plumbing. The likely culprit? A clogged AC drain line.

In this post, we’ll break down exactly what’s happening, what you can do right now to stop the leak, and why calling a local plumbing pro might save you a bigger headache (and repair bill).

Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water Inside?

Your air conditioner doesn’t just cool your home—it also acts like a dehumidifier, pulling gallons of moisture from Florida’s sticky summer air.

That moisture collects as condensation and drains outside through a small PVC pipe called the condensate drain line. But over time, this dark, damp pipe becomes the perfect place for mold, algae, and gunk to grow. When the line clogs, water backs up—and spills out inside your home.

In humid areas like Melbourne and Brevard County, this is an especially common issue. Thankfully, it’s easy to spot if you know what to look for.

How to Tell If Your AC Drain Line Is Clogged

Here are the top signs your AC’s condensate drain line may be blocked:

• Standing Water: A puddle around your indoor air handler is the most obvious red flag.

• Musty Smells: If you notice moldy or mildewy odors near your unit or coming from your vents, that trapped moisture is likely the cause.

• System Shutoff: Some systems use a float switch to prevent water damage. If your A/C won’t turn on, it might be because the unit has shut itself down to avoid overflow.

• Water Stains: Look for dripping or discoloration on ceilings or walls near your air handler.

If you’re seeing any of these signs, don’t wait. Follow the next three steps to protect your home.

What to Do Right Now: 3 Steps to Prevent Water Damage from Your AC

Water damage can get expensive—fast. Here's how to limit the damage right now:

1. Turn Off Your Air Conditioner
   Head to your thermostat and turn the system OFF completely. This stops it from producing more condensation while the drain is clogged.

2. Clean Up the Spill
   Use towels or a shop vac to soak up all visible water around the unit. This helps stop mold from forming and prevents additional damage to your flooring or drywall.

3. Locate the Drain Line Exit
   Find the white PVC pipe outside your home—typically near the outdoor compressor unit. Check if it’s dripping water. If it’s dry, the line is likely clogged.

These steps can buy you some time, but a permanent fix may require professional help.

Why Call a Plumber for a Clogged AC Drain Line?

You might be wondering—isn’t this an HVAC problem?

Not always. While the AC system produces the water, the issue here is with the drain line. And when it comes to clogs, no one is better equipped than a licensed plumber for AC drain line repairs.

At Burton Plumbing, we offer:

• Specialized Tools: We use high-powered vacuums and pressurized air to clear the blockage quickly and completely—far beyond what DIY solutions can do.

• Thorough Drain Cleaning: We clear the entire line and flush out the mold, sludge, and debris that caused the problem, helping prevent repeat clogs. Learn more about our professional drain cleaning in Melbourne.

• Rapid Emergency Service: A water leak can feel like an emergency. We respond fast to stop the damage and get your A/C back online. Explore our 24/7 emergency plumbing services.
  

FAQs About AC Drain Line Leaks