Have you ever noticed water leaking from your furnace? Chances are, you have a condensation leak. While this may seem minor, it can be pretty serious. A condensation leak means your furnace is not venting properly, which can lead to many problems, including decreased efficiency, rust, and even fires. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to fix condensation leak in your furnace.
Reasons For Condensation Leak in Furnace
There are a few reasons that your furnace may be leaking condensation.
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons for a condensation leak. When the air filter is clogged with dirt and debris, it puts extra strain on the furnace. As a result, the furnace has to work harder to push air through the filter, which causes it to overheat and produce condensation.
Leaking Ductwork
Another common reason for a condensation leak is leaking ductwork. When the ductwork is damaged or has holes, it can cause warm air to escape and cold air to enter the furnace. As a result, the furnace has to work harder to heat your home, which causes it to overheat and produce condensation.
Improper Venting
The third most common reason for a condensation leak is improper venting. If the venting isn’t installed correctly, it can cause the furnace to overheat and produce condensation.
Heat Exchanger Issue
If you have an older furnace, the heat exchanger may be cracked. The heat exchanger is what heats the air that’s circulated through your home. A cracked heat exchanger can cause water to leak from your furnace.
How to Fix a Condensation Leak
Now that you know the three most common reasons for a condensation leak let’s look at how to fix it.
Turn Off The System
The first step is to turn off the furnace. Find the switch on the wall and flip it to the “Off” position. Once the furnace is off, you can begin troubleshooting the problem.
Locate the Source of the Leak
If you can see water dripping from the furnace, then the source of the leak is likely the PVC pipe that runs from the furnace to the outdoors. If you cannot see any water, then the source of the leak is likely the drain pan.
Check The Condensate Line
Check your condensate line to see if it’s clogged. The condensate line is what drains the water produced when your furnace is running. If this line is clogged, it will cause water to leak from your furnace. You can use a wet/dry vac or a plunger to clear a clogged line. Simply put the vacuum over the drain line or place the plunger over the drain line and push and pull until the clog is cleared.
Check The Air Filter
If the air filter is dirty, it’s probably the cause of the condensation leak. Remove the air filter and check it for dirt and debris. If it’s dirty, replace it with a new one.
Check The Ductwork
If the ductwork is damaged or has holes, it could be causing the condensation leak. Inspect the ductwork for any damage and make repairs as necessary.
Inspect The Venting
If the venting is the problem, it will need to be inspected by a professional. The experts will be able to determine if the venting is installed correctly and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.
Conclusion
Condensation leaks in furnaces are relatively common but can be fixed with regular maintenance or replaced if necessary. If you think you have a condensation leak, it’s essential to contact a professional immediately so they can diagnose and repair the problem before it worsens.
