Why Is My Furnace Leaking On The Floor?
Surprises can come at any time. We buy our home appliances thinking they will never break. However, that is often not the case. Problems can arise at any time. They may occur when you least expect it.
Coming home to a furnace leaking water is a surprise that is never fun. Unfortunately, it is also a highly likely scenario. Of course, there are several reasons why it may happen. Some of them are major and some are minor. Whatever the case may be, you will need to deal with it as soon as possible.
Why Is My Furnace Leaking on the Floor?
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As mentioned earlier, there are several reasons why it may happen. The type of furnace you have is also a massive factor, especially if it is a high-efficiency furnace as opposed to a conventional one. Keep reading to find out the common causes of furnace leaks.
Condensation or Clog in the Furnace
If you have a high-efficiency furnace, it has a cool exhaust that may produce condensation. It is a natural byproduct of the fuel that is burned. It is exhausted through a PVC pipe that drains onto the floor drain in your furnace room.
However, it often becomes clogged. Sometimes the drain becomes clogged. This causes water to back up and leak out of the furnace, which is a major problem.
As for conventional furnaces, they should not naturally leak water. If the furnace is over 15 years old, the leak may be caused by an incorrectly sized pipe that is making water drain back into the furnace.
Whatever the case may be, it is a problem you need to fix immediately. Calling a professional HVAC repair team is highly recommended as it is a complex situation.
Broken Condensation Line or Condensate Pump
As you know by now, high-efficiency furnaces produce condensation as a natural byproduct. It is usually drained through the condensate line. If it is broken or damaged in any way, it may produce a leak.
Many furnaces nowadays also have condensation pumps. It does exactly what it says — pumps the condensation out of the furnace, keeping it dry. If it develops a fault or problem, it may create issues and leaks.
Problems with the Humidifier in the Furnace
Many times, the issue is the humidifier that is present in the furnace. It is added by homeowners to make it more comfortable during the winter months when it is very dry.
It requires water to operate, and it may develop issues over time that may cause it to leak water. Sometimes the device itself may develop cracks. Most often it usually leaks water back into the furnace, making it an even more complicated situation.
You might think of handling this by yourself as a do-it-yourself repair. However, it is an incredibly sensitive piece of equipment that requires a skilled, professional technician to thoroughly inspect and make repairs as necessary. While it is usually inspected as part of an annual checkup, it is a good idea to ask your technician to check this part first when diagnosing the problem.
The Air Conditioner Might Be the Culprit
The problem may have a beginning that none of us may suspect: the air conditioner! If you live in a climate where you may use the air conditioner and the furnace over the same time frame, it might be the former who is causing the leak.
It is because air conditioners absorb moisture from the air and then condense it. This water is then drained outside using a pan. However, if there is a clog or a leak, it may look like your furnace is the one causing the problem. It is in fact the air conditioner.
It is again a good idea to ask a professional technician to come and inspect your furnace and air conditioner to check what is causing the leak. Having a professional fix it will lead to more longevity for your equipment. It will also leave you free from stress.
Should I Replace My Furnace Filter?
Yes, you should. In fact, it is a good idea to check your furnace filter every month and replace it when necessary. However, it will not fix the leak as it is not the cause of the problem. You should change the filter once repairs are made and before you turn the furnace back on. By doing so, you ensure the smooth operation of your furnace for a longer period.
What Do I Do When I Notice a Leak?
Contact your local professional HVAC technician immediately to fix the leak! Leaks can cause massive issues. They may damage parts, walls, and floors. They may also lead to mold growing nearby, which is something you do not want at all in your home.
Before the professional comes to your house, however, you need to do a couple of things.
- Turn the entire system off. Use the switch next to the furnace and turn it off. If the switch is not there, use the breaker to disconnect it.
- Clean up water that may have pooled up around the base.
- Check the air filter. If it is dirty or clogged, buy a new one and replace it.
- Finally, wait for the HVAC technician!
Conclusion
Seeing a furnace leak is not the end of the world. Having a professional come over and inspect the problem is the first step in a stress-free solution. Look for a company that specializes in HVAC units and has a good reputation in your local area. Step back and let the professionals do their job — it will be fixed in no time!
Call McAllister Energy For Superior Heating & Cooling Solutions
McAllister Energy offers high-quality HVAC services in Camden County, New Jersey. We hire only the best professionally certified technicians who conduct superior heating and cooling services. Some of our HVAC services include HVAC maintenance, heating and cooling installations, repairs, ductless systems, energy audits, and much more. All our techs provide accurate HVAC services on time, every time.
Our company guarantees affordable heating and cooling service rates. Our maintenance services can increase your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. We can also provide you with a highly energy-efficient HVAC replacement system that fits your budget. Your satisfaction is important to us, so all our work comes with a guarantee. Book a service appointment with McAllister Energy today. We provide free, in-home estimates.
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