If your furnace leaks water during the winter, this is cause for concern. It might be a messy inconvenience, but it could also signal a possible issue with your home’s heating system. Knowing why furnaces leak water helps you describe the problem to a technician for prompt diagnosis of the issue.
1. Condensation Leaks in High-Efficiency Furnaces
High-efficiency furnaces usually have annual fuel utilization efficiency ratios of 90% or more. Water leakage due to condensation can happen with high-AFUE systems. These furnaces have a heat extraction process that produces condensation byproducts. This water usually gets routed out by way of a drain line. However, disconnections, cracks, and clogs might cause leaks outside the unit and drain. A professional technician can check your drain line to clear any blockages.
2. Clogged Drain Lines or Drain Pan
Condensation happens with most furnaces to some degree, but the drain line or drain pan is there to collect it. Over time, dust, debris, and biological contaminants might accumulate and clog this part of the system. Water backs up and then leaks out.
3. Malfunctioning Humidifier
Does your furnace have a built-in humidifier? If so, a leak inside your equipment might make the water pool up around the unit. A humidifier is supposed to add moisture to the air, but leaks can happen from damage or improper maintenance.
4. Problems With the Heat Exchanger
A cracked heat exchanger isn’t an overly common issue, but it can result in water leakage. When the heat exchanger suffers damage, there might be accumulations of condensation that result in leaks. Cracked heat exchangers are serious issues, and carbon monoxide leaks might result from them. A professional inspection of this component should happen promptly, given the potential dangers involved.
Addressing Furnace Water Leaks
Winter water leaks from furnaces are usually due to condensation, humidifier issues, clogged drain lines, and heat exchanger issues. Professional inspection and repairs are the only reliable way to make sure everything is addressed and to achieve peace of mind. Titan Heating & Air serves residences in the Lexington, KY, area and surrounding communities with HVAC, including furnace repair, geothermal, and indoor air quality services. Contact Titan Heating & Air for all your home’s HVAC needs.
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