AC leaking water? Here's what to do, and who to call.

When the air handler's drain line clogs, water backs up into the pan and spills into closets, hallways and ceilings. It's one of the most common causes of water damage in Florida homes. One free call connects you with a local restoration company.

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If you have water in your home right now, shut off the water, take photos, and call your insurance company. Many insurers can send a restoration company out quickly.

We're a referral service, not the company doing the work.

do this first

Stop the drip

Turn the AC offAt the thermostat. Running it keeps adding water to the pan.
Check the drain panIf it's full, soak it up with towels or a wet-vac. Don't try to tip it.
Look for a float switchSome systems shut themselves off when the pan fills. If your AC stopped cooling and the pan is full, that's likely why.
Check the ceiling belowFor attic units, look for stains or sagging. Keep people out from under a sagging spot.
Take photosThe pan, the closet floor and any stains, before you clean up.

Why AC drain lines clog in Florida

Your AC pulls a lot of moisture out of the air, and here it runs most of the year. A small pipe called the condensate line carries that water outside. Algae and dust build up inside it, the line clogs, and the water has nowhere to go but the pan, and then the floor or ceiling.

Around the closet: Water on the floor of the air handler closet, or swollen baseboards and door trim nearby.
On the ceiling: Stains or bubbling paint below an attic unit.
In the air: A musty smell when the AC kicks on.

AC technician or restoration company?

Usually both. An HVAC technician clears the line, checks the pan and float switch, and fixes the cause. A restoration company dries the wet drywall, flooring and insulation so mold doesn't follow.

Many HVAC companies flush condensate lines during regular maintenance. Ask your technician how often your system needs it.

How this works

You call and tell us your ZIP code and what happened. We connect your call to an independent, licensed restoration company that works in your area. They come out, look at the damage, and give you a quote.

We don't do the work and we don't charge you. The company you're connected with may pay us for the referral. Any price or agreement is between you and them.

Questions people ask

Is AC water damage covered by insurance?

A sudden overflow is often covered. Damage from a drip that went on for weeks or months often isn't. Check your policy or ask your agent.

Can AC water cause mold?

Yes. Wet drywall, insulation and carpet pad can start growing mold within 24 to 48 hours in Florida humidity.

Is it safe to keep running the AC?

Not until the line is cleared. Running it adds more water to a pan that's already overflowing.