Is Your Central Air Conditioning Leaking?

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

The dog days of summer are upon us with high heat and humidity.  Thank Goodness for central air conditioning.  However, your central air conditioner is also a dehumidifier.  The moist air condenses into water as it is cooled inside the unit.  The moisture collects and drains through a hose or tubing into a nearby drain.  If this drain line becomes obstructed with dust, debris and/or microbial growth (mold/mildew), the water will backup and seek another path to flow. 

Typically the HVAC unit is in a closet or behind a partition wall adjacent to a finished living space and this moisture seeps undetected into the nearby carpet and pad.  It won’t take long for the moisture to generate microbial growth in the pad/carpet which will generate that unpleasant musty, mil-dewy odor.  It is also possible for water to damage the air conditioner, depending upon the path it travels. 

So it is a good idea to check those drain lines at the onset of high heat and humidity.  If nothing is trickling out of the end of the line, you better call an HVAC Tech and find out why.   The longer it goes undetected, the greater the damage and cost.  Some individuals may be quite sensitive to toxic organisms that thrive in these cool, quiet and moist conditions.    Be sure to call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888 if you need any help assessing possible water problems.