Why is my AC leaking water inside the room?

Common causes

• Blocked drain pipe from dust, algae or insects. The most common cause after the monsoon.
• Dirty filters, which make the coil freeze and then drip when the ice melts.
• Indoor unit not level, so water runs out of the tray instead of into the pipe.
• Drain pipe bent, crushed or sloping upwards after painting or wall work.
• Low gas, which can also freeze the coil and cause dripping.

What to do right now

• Switch the AC off and place a towel or bucket under the unit.
• Check the outdoor end of the drain pipe. If no water comes out while the AC runs, it is blocked.
• Clean the filters if they are dusty.
• Do not keep running the AC with a heavy leak near switches or wiring.

How a technician fixes it

A technician flushes and clears the drain line, cleans the coil and tray, checks the unit is level and checks gas pressure. A regular AC service before summer and after the monsoon prevents most leaks.