Air conditioning condensation leaks are a common problem.
Air conditioner evaporator coils are sometimes located in attics and can sweat moisture into ceiling vents, like a glass of ice water in the summer. Extensive ceiling damage can occur if the drain line is clogged. Costs vary, but for a 10 foot by 12 foot room, a new ceiling costs $50 to $200, not including installation costs.
Symptoms
On hot and humid days, water is often found in and around air conditioner duct and vent systems, especially if a home is kept very cold. Ducts sweat because the outside metal surfaces are below the dew point of the air in their immediate surroundings. Ducts may leak from poor seals, or because algae has built up and clogged the drain line.
Solution
The primary methods to stop duct systems from sweating include raising the outside surface temperature of the duct, lowering the dew point of the air surrounding the duct with a dehumidifier, and clearing any algae from drain lines with bleach or by using a CO2 gun to blow the line. If the supply duct is sweating, increased air flow will moderate the cooling coil's temperature and raise the duct .
Warning
To avoid serious injury or death, disconnect the unit from its power source before beginning repair work.
Tags: drain line, surface temperature