Preventing and Addressing Leaky Air Conditioners in Commercial Spaces

 

A leaky air conditioner in a commercial building is a significant concern, especially during the peak of summer. Not only does it indicate underlying issues, but it can also lead to costly repairs and potential disruptions to business operations. If you notice unexplained water pooling around the unit or inside your building, it's crucial to address the problem promptly to prevent further damage.

Common Causes of Commercial AC Leaks

1. Installation Errors Installation errors can occur even in newly constructed buildings or when replacing old units. These errors might include loose connections, misalignment, or an incorrectly sealed condensate drain. Additionally, if the unit wasn't level during installation, this could lead to leakage.
2. Clogged Condensate Drain A primary cause of AC leaks is a clogged condensate drain line. This line is essential for directing water away from the unit. Over time, debris, mold, and dirt can block the line, causing water to pool around the unit. This not only damages floors, walls, and possibly kitchen appliances but also poses health risks due to mold growth.
3. Damaged Condensate Drain Pan Older units might experience leakage due to a rusted or cracked drain pan. The drain pan's role is to catch condensation from the evaporator coils, but continuous exposure to moisture can damage it and cause leaks.
4. Frozen Evaporator Coils If evaporator coils freeze, they can cause leaks when they thaw. This issue often arises from poor airflow due to damaged ductwork, dirty air filters, or malfunctioning blower fans. Frozen coils obstruct the cooling process and lead to excessive condensation.
5. Dirty Air Filter A clogged air filter can lead to several issues, including water leakage. The filter traps airborne particles, ensuring clean air enters the system. However, if it's clogged, it restricts airflow, leading to problems like freezing coils and leaks.
6. Broken Condensate Pump In commercial buildings, the condensate pump plays a crucial role in directing water away from the unit. If it malfunctions, water can overflow from the drain pan, causing leaks and potential water damage.
7. Low refrigerant levels can also cause AC units to leak. This condition may lead to frozen evaporator coils, which leak water when they thaw. Signs of low refrigerant include reduced cooling efficiency, increased humidity, and unusual hissing or bubbling sounds.
8. Incorrectly-Sized AC Units Choosing the right size for your commercial AC unit is critical. A unit that's too small will struggle to cool the space efficiently, while an oversized unit might cycle off too quickly, failing to remove humidity effectively. Both scenarios can result in excess condensation and leaks.
9. Obstructed Air Vents Obstructed air vents restrict airflow, causing evaporator coils to freeze and eventually leak when they thaw. Regular checks and maintenance can prevent this issue, ensuring vents are open and unobstructed.
10. Poor Humidity Control High humidity levels can overwhelm an AC unit's ability to manage moisture, especially in the humid Orlando climate, leading to excess condensation and leaks. Unlike residential applications, commercial spaces have many factors to consider, such as negative air or exhaust system failures.

Professional AC Maintenance and Repair with SSI Services

At SSI Services, we specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of commercial AC systems. Our experienced team ensures that your air conditioning units operate efficiently and reliably, preventing issues like leaks and minimizing downtime.

 

Contact SSI Services for comprehensive HVAC solutions tailored to your commercial space's unique needs. Our services include indoor air quality assessments, exhaust maintenance, and makeup air systems. Ensure your business stays comfortable and productive with expert care from SSI Services.