Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water? (How-to Guide)

Water leaking from your furnace can be alarming and frustrating. Addressing the issue promptly is essential to prevent further damage and ensure your heating system functions efficiently. In this guide, we’ll explore common causes, troubleshooting steps, and tips to prevent furnace water leaks.

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Several factors can lead to water leaking from your furnace. Here are the most common causes:

High-efficiency furnaces produce condensation as part of their operation. If the condensation drain system is blocked or faulty, water may leak out. These furnaces use a PVC pipe to drain the water, and any malfunction can lead to pooling around the unit.

A clogged condensate drain can prevent water from flowing out properly, causing it to back up and overflow. Blockages often occur due to dirt, dust, or mold buildup in the drain line.

In cases where the furnace’s location doesn’t allow for gravity drainage, a condensate pump is used to move water. A broken or malfunctioning pump can result in water leaks.

Evaporator coils can become dirty or even freeze, leading to excessive moisture buildup. This can drip and accumulate around the furnace.

If your furnace has an integrated humidifier, a leak could stem from cracks in the humidifier or a loose water line connection.

 

Loose or damaged pipe connections may allow water to seep out, especially near the furnace’s drain system. This is an often overlooked but easily fixable cause.  Source

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Follow these steps to troubleshoot and address furnace water leaks:

For safety, always turn off the furnace by flipping the switch or turning off the breaker in the circuit panel before inspecting or fixing any issues. This prevents potential electrical hazards or further damage.

Locate the condensation drain and inspect it for clogs. If blocked, use a wet/dry vacuum to clear the obstruction or flush it with warm water.

Check if the condensate pump is working correctly. If the pump fails to activate or drain water, it’s time to call a professional.  You need to make sure you have the right replacement unit for your specific equipment. Using the wrong replacement can affect the safety and life of your furnace.

Examine the water lines and filters in your humidifier for leaks or damage. Tighten any loose connections and replace filters if necessary.

If the problem persists or you’re unsure about a fix, contact a professional technician to avoid causing further damage.

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Attempting DIY fixes without proper knowledge can worsen the issue. If you’re unable to resolve the leak, seek professional assistance. Delaying repairs can lead to water damage, mold growth, and increased repair costs.

Here are some tips to prevent water leaks:

• Schedule regular maintenance with a professional.
• Your professional will check and clean or replace the condensate drain line.
• Check for loose connections during seasonal inspections.
• When necessary replace the humidifier filter regularly to avoid clogs.

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Ignoring furnace water leaks can result in significant issues such as:

• Water damage to surrounding areas
• Mold growth and health risks
• Reduced furnace efficiency and eventual breakdown

Addressing leaks promptly ensures the longevity of your furnace and maintains a safe home environment.

Contact a Furnace Repair Expert

If your furnace is leaking water, contact Arndt Heating & Cooling today for fast and reliable service. Our experts will diagnose and fix the problem to keep your home comfortable.

Why Choose Arndt Heating & Cooling?

• Experienced and certified technicians
• Quick response times
• High-quality service and customer satisfaction

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• What causes water to leak from my furnace?
• Common causes include condensation issues, clogged drains, or faulty pumps.