The AC drip pan is specifically designed to catch any water that may leak from the unit. Without it, water could potentially damage the floor or other areas around the unit. So, if you notice water in your AC drip pan, don’t panic. It is most likely just a normal part of the AC unit’s operation.

Is it normal for AC drip pan to have water?

However, when it comes to your air conditioner’s drip pan, also known as the drain pan, the presence of water is perfectly normal… but only if it’s flowing out of the pan. If you ever find your drip pan full of stagnant water, it usually means your drainpipe is clogged.

Why does HVAC pan fill with water?





A clogged drain pipe is the most common cause of standing water in the drain pan. As air passes over the evaporator coils in your air conditioner, it cools down and loses some of its humidity. This humidity is left behind in the form of condensation on the coils.

Why is water dripping from evaporator coil?

Problems in the Drainage. The most common causes of evaporator coil leaks are a clogged drain line or a rusted condensation pan. The drain line can get clogged with all sorts of things, like insects, mold or dirt, which then means the water coming off the condensation coil has nowhere to go.

How do I get water out of my AC drain pan?

Your best course of action includes the following:

  1. Turn the unit off.
  2. Cut the power to the unit.
  3. Check the drain line for leaves and other debris where it exits your home.
  4. Use a wet/dry vac to remove the standing water from the drain pan.
  5. Remove the cap from the condensate line.
  6. Inspect for visible blockage.

How much water should be in my AC drip pan?

Generally, AC drains water around 5 to 20 gallons per day, depending on how long the unit is running and the humidity level outside. While an AC unit draining this much water outside your home is perfectly normal, any amount of water draining inside your house should cause alarm.

How do I know if my AC drain pan is full?





Use a flashlight to inspect the drain pan, located inside the air handler. Check the opening to the condensate drain line for any obvious backups or debris. Clean out the drain pan as best you can. If there is condensate in the overflow pan, you probably have drain line clog.

Why is my AC unit draining so much water?

If water is draining inside your home, the problem could be: A rusted or damaged drain pan. A clogged condensate drain line. A frozen evaporator coil.