If you’ve ever noticed water dripping from the indoor unit of your air conditioner, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common issues users face, especially during hot or humid months. While it might seem alarming, the cause is usually easy to identify — and in most cases, you can fix it yourself with just a little care.

Let’s explore why your indoor unit (the evaporator) leaks water and the best ways to fix it safely and effectively.

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🧊 Common Causes of Water Leakage from the Indoor Unit

1. Dirty Evaporator Coil and Clogged Drain Line

Many households run their air conditioners continuously but forget to clean them regularly. Over time, dust and debris accumulate inside, especially in the drain pipe, air filter, and cooling coil.
When the drainage system gets clogged, condensation water cannot flow out properly. Instead, it backs up inside the unit, eventually dripping from the front panel or vents.

Tip: If you notice reduced cooling performance or hear gurgling sounds inside your AC, it’s a strong sign that the drain line is partially blocked.

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2. Incorrect Installation

A poor installation job can also cause your AC to leak water indoors.
If the drain pipe is sloped in the wrong direction, water may flow backward into the unit instead of draining outside. Similarly, if the indoor unit is not level — for instance, one side is slightly higher than the other — water can collect inside the drip tray and overflow into your room.

That’s why it’s crucial to have your air conditioner installed by certified technicians who follow correct positioning and slope requirements.

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3. Low Refrigerant (Gas) Levels

When the air conditioner runs with low refrigerant pressure, the evaporator coil can freeze up. Once the ice melts, it turns into excess water that the drain system cannot handle, leading to internal dripping.
This problem doesn’t just cause leaks — it also reduces cooling efficiency and increases electricity consumption.

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4. Damaged or Blocked Drain Pan

Inside every indoor AC unit is a small drain pan (water tray) that collects condensation and directs it toward the drain pipe. If this tray becomes cracked, loose, or clogged with dirt, water will stagnate and overflow into your home instead of draining outside.

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5. Cracked Housing or Internal Components

In some cases, a crack in the plastic casing or loose internal fittings can allow water to escape. These small structural defects often occur during installation, relocation, or cleaning if handled roughly. Although minor, such leaks can worsen over time and damage your wall or furniture.

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⚙️ How to Fix an Air Conditioner That’s Leaking Water

1. Clean the Indoor Unit Thoroughly

Regular cleaning is the simplest and most effective way to prevent water leakage.
Remove the air filters and wash them with mild soap and water every few weeks, especially before the start of the summer season.
Use a soft brush or gentle water spray to clean the evaporator coil and the drainage line. After cleaning, dry the filters completely before reinstalling them.

If you’ve used your AC throughout the year without maintenance, it’s best to have a technician perform a deep cleaning once or twice annually.

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2. Refill the Refrigerant Gas

If the issue is caused by low refrigerant levels, contact a qualified technician to refill the gas. This will restore optimal cooling performance and prevent ice from forming on the evaporator coil — the main reason for water dripping.
Ask the technician to check for leaks in the refrigerant line as well, so the problem doesn’t recur.

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3. Repair or Replace the Drainage System

If the drain pipe or drain pan is cracked or blocked, replacing it is the only long-term fix.
In case the leak is due to incorrect installation, ask a professional to adjust the slope of the indoor unit and ensure proper alignment of the drain pipe. Once installed correctly, water will flow smoothly outside without pooling in the unit.

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🌬️ Pro Tips to Prevent Future Leaks

• Clean or replace filters every 2–3 weeks during heavy use.

• Have your AC serviced at least twice a year to check the refrigerant, coil condition, and drainage system.

• Keep the area around the indoor unit dry to prevent mold growth or electrical risks.

• Turn off the AC and call a technician immediately if you notice ice forming on the indoor coil — this indicates a deeper cooling system issue.

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✅ In Summary

A leaking indoor unit doesn’t always mean your air conditioner is broken — most of the time, it’s a sign of maintenance neglect or minor installation errors.
By regularly cleaning your system, refilling the gas when needed, and ensuring proper installation, you can easily prevent leaks, improve cooling efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.