Why Is My Air Conditioner Leaking Water but Still Running?

(last updated May 20, 2026)

Some condensation around your AC is normal, but active dripping or pooling may warrant more concern. If your AC is leaking water while still running, understanding the common causes can help you determine when to troubleshoot or call a professional HVAC technician. Learn the common reasons behind AC leaks and request expert repairs from Amarillo Air Conditioning.

Summary

• Minor dripping is normal, but steady leaks signal a bigger problem.
• A leaking AC often results from clogged drain lines, frozen evaporator coils, dirty air filters, or damaged drain pans.
• Running an AC with a water leak may lead to mold growth, water damage, or additional system wear.

Is Some Water From My AC Normal?

Many ACs drain a small amount of water as part of normal operations. Your AC collects humidity from the indoor air during cooling cycles, and it can extract and drain gallons of water each day, depending on the unit’s size, indoor humidity levels, temperatures, and local climate factors. If your air conditioner is leaking water abnormally, it may require professional attention. 

7 Reasons Your AC Unit Is Leaking Water

These are the most common reasons why your AC may be leaking excessively.

1. Clogged condensate drain line

The condensate drain line transfers water extracted during the cooling process to outside your home. If dirt, mold, dust, or other debris build up and clog the line, you may find standing water near your indoor AC unit.

2. Frozen evaporator coils

An evaporator coil freezes over when its surface temperature drops too low and causes the moisture in the air to freeze on the coil. When the cooling cycle ends, the evaporator coil thaws and the water drips off, potentially leaving a puddle by the AC.

3. Refrigerant leak

Low refrigerant may cause your AC’s evaporator coil to freeze and indirectly contribute to water leaks. When refrigerant pressure is too low, its temperature drops and likewise chills the coil it flows through, and you may hear hissing noises if there’s a leak. Once frozen, the evaporator coil is too insulated to absorb heat and will prevent your AC from properly cooling your home, potentially leading to high energy bills, uneven temperatures, and even compressor overheating and failure.

4. Dirty or clogged air filter

A frozen evaporator coil can also be traced back to a dirty or clogged air filter. Your AC unit’s air filter catches dirt, dust, hair, and other debris to prevent it from entering the HVAC system, coating the components, and recirculating throughout your home.

Without regular replacement, a dirty filter restricts airflow, forces your system to work inefficiently, and can concentrate cold temperatures and humidity at the evaporator coil. Dirty filters may also contribute to dirt buildup that insulates coils and increases the likelihood of freezing.

5. Damaged condensate drain pan

Usually located directly under the evaporator coils of your indoor AC unit, the condensate drain pan catches condensation collected throughout the cooling process and directs it to the drain line. A drain pan can leak water if it’s overwhelmed by a thawing evaporator coil, but it may also corrode or crack with enough wear, allowing water to seep out and pool around the unit.

6. Malfunctioning condensate pump

Some AC units and HVAC systems rely on a condensate pump to help move water outside. If this pump malfunctions, water backs up and eventually leaks around the unit.

7. High outdoor humidity

High outdoor humidity increases indoor humidity levels as well as the amount of moisture your AC removes from the air. If the condensate drain pain or drain line become overwhelmed, you’ll likely see a pool forming around the indoor unit.

If My AC Is Leaking Water, Can I Still Use It?

You can sometimes continue to use an AC that’s leaking water if it’s from normal operation. If you continue to run an AC that’s leaking excessively, you may cause further damage to the system or surrounding areas. Schedule a professional HVAC inspection with Amarillo Air to avoid more significant problems, such as:

• Water damage to floors, walls, or nearby furniture
• Mold and mildew growth
• Poor cooling performance
• High energy bills
• Costly AC repairs
• Electrical hazards
• Complete system failure

What To Do If Your AC Unit Is Leaking Water but Still Running

If your AC is still running but leaking water, follow these steps:

• Step one: Turn off the AC to prevent further leaks and damage to your home and air conditioner.
• Step two: Remove the standing water with towels or a mop, and move any furniture or belongings nearby.
• Step three: Open the doors and windows and use a fan to discourage mold growth and ventilate the area.
• Step four: Inspect your air conditioner to look for common causes, such as a clogged drain line, damaged condensate pan, frozen evaporator coil, or dirty air filter.
• Step five: Contact a qualified HVAC professional like Amarillo Air to diagnose and repair the problem.

Contact Amarillo Air Conditioning Today

If your AC is leaking water but still running, don’t ignore it. Contact us today — at Amarillo Air Conditioning, our experts are available to help you stop the leak and keep your air conditioner running smoothly all summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my AC leaking water but still cooling?

Your AC may still cool while leaking water if the issue stems from the drainage system rather than the cooling process itself. In this case, your system may have a clogged drain line or cracked drain pan that allows water to overflow.

How much water should my AC drain normally?

A central AC system typically drains several gallons of water per day during hot or humid weather. The exact amount depends on factors like indoor humidity levels, outdoor temperatures, and system size.

How do I stop my AC from leaking water inside my house?

To stop your AC from leaking inside your house, turn off the system, and check for common issues. Replacing the filter and clearing the drain line may resolve minor problems, but call a professional to assist with more persistent leaks.