AC leaking water inside

Stop it today before the drywall gives.

1. Turn cooling off at the thermostat The unit makes water only while cooling.
2. Switch off the breaker for any light in the wet ceiling Put a bucket under the drip.
3. If the ceiling bulges, keep people out from under it See the sagging-ceiling card.

Attic air handlers overflow when the drain clogs and the secondary pan or float switch fails.

The safety did its job. Clear the drain.

1. Turn the system off
2. Empty or wet-vac the pan and the drain line from its cleanout or outdoor end A cup of distilled white vinegar in the cleanout is a common follow-up.
3. Turn it back on and watch the pan for an hour If water rises again, call a technician.

Algae and debris clog condensate lines, especially in humid months.

Clear it this week.

1. Turn cooling off and dry the area
2. Clear the line from its outdoor end with a wet-dry vacuum
3. Check the pan for cracks and rust A cracked pan needs replacing.

ENERGY STAR lists the condensate drain in its maintenance checklist: a plugged drain can cause water damage.