Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?

It can be alarming if you've noticed water pooling around your furnace. While furnaces aren't supposed to leak water, there are several reasons why this might happen. In this guide, we'll explain why your furnace may be leaking and what you can do about it.

Is Your Furnace a High-Efficiency Model?

One of the most common reasons for a furnace to leak water is that it's a high-efficiency furnace. These models are designed to extract as much heat as possible from the fuel they burn, which creates condensation. This condensation has to be drained away, but if there's a problem with the drain system, it can cause water to pool around the furnace.

High-efficiency furnaces, or condensing, have a unique venting system to handle the moisture created. If this venting system gets clogged or damaged, the condensation can back up and cause leaks. You can check if your furnace is high-efficiency by looking at its AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating. If it's 90% or higher, it's likely a high-efficiency model.

Is There a Clogged Condensate Drain?

Furnaces that produce condensation need a condensate drain to carry away the water. If this drain becomes clogged with dirt, debris, or algae, the water has nowhere to go and will start leaking out of the furnace. This is one of the most common causes of water leakage in furnaces.

To fix a clogged condensate drain, flush it with water and vinegar or use a special drain cleaner. If you're unsure how to do this, it's best to call a professional HVAC technician to help clear the blockage.

Could the Humidifier Be the Problem?

Some furnaces are equipped with built-in humidifiers, which help to add moisture to the air in your home. If the humidifier develops a leak, water can pool around the furnace. Over time, the water line or the connection to the humidifier can become loose or damaged, leading to leaks.

To check if the humidifier is causing the problem, inspect the water line connected to it. If you find any cracks or loose connections, they must be repaired or replaced. Having a professional handle this is a good idea to avoid further issues.

Is the Furnace Exhaust Pipe Blocked?

If your furnace's exhaust pipe is blocked or damaged, water can leak out of the system. The exhaust pipe carries away gases and condensation produced during combustion. If the pipe is clogged or improperly installed, moisture can leak into your home. To prevent these issues, it’s essential to have a chimney inspection to ensure that both the chimney and exhaust pipe are functioning properly and venting gases safely.

Inspecting the exhaust pipe for blockages, such as ice or debris, is a crucial step. In colder climates, ice can sometimes form in the exhaust pipe and cause a blockage. If you're dealing with ice buildup, it’s important to have the pipe insulated or rerouted to prevent this from happening again.

Could a Faulty Heat Exchanger Be the Cause?

Another possible reason for water leakage is a cracked or damaged heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is an essential part of your furnace that transfers heat from the combustion process to the air that heats your home. If the heat exchanger is cracked, water can leak out of the system.

A cracked heat exchanger is a serious issue that can also lead to carbon monoxide leaks, a health hazard. If you suspect the heat exchanger is the problem, contact an HVAC professional immediately to inspect and repair your furnace.

Is There an Issue with the AC Unit?

Sometimes, water leaks from the furnace from something other than the furnace, but it is also from your air conditioning (AC) unit. If your furnace shares the same air handler as your AC, condensation from the AC could be the source of the water. During warmer months, the AC generates condensation as it cools the air. If the condensate drain line for the AC becomes clogged, water could leak near the furnace.

In this case, you'll want to check the AC's drain line and ensure it's not blocked. Cleaning the drain line often solves the issue. If not, a technician can help identify and fix the problem.

Is the Furnace Installation Incorrect?

Sometimes, water leakage can result from improper furnace installation. If the furnace or drainage system isn't installed correctly, water might not drain properly, leading to leaks. An incorrectly installed furnace may have an improperly sloped drain pipe or a venting system that doesn't allow moisture to escape properly.

If you suspect installation issues, it's best to contact the company that installed the furnace or a licensed HVAC professional to inspect the system. Correcting installation mistakes early can prevent more significant problems later. Moreover, consider scheduling our standard inspection to ensure your entire heating system is functioning efficiently and safely.

What Should You Do If Your Furnace Is Leaking Water?

If you notice water leaking from your furnace, acting quickly is essential. While some causes of water leakage can be easy to fix, others may require professional help. Here are a few steps you can take:

1.Turn off the furnace: If you see water leaking, turn off the furnace to prevent further damage.

2. Check the condensate drain: Ensure the drain isn't clogged and functioning correctly.

3. Inspect the humidifier: Check for leaks or loose connections if your furnace has a humidifier.

4. Call a professional: If you're unsure of the cause or the problem seems severe, it's best to call an HVAC technician to inspect and repair the furnace.

Conclusion

A leaking furnace can indicate several issues, from a clogged condensate drain to a faulty heat exchanger. By identifying the cause early and taking the proper steps, you can prevent further damage and ensure your furnace continues to work efficiently.

Call Protec inspection service today to schedule a professional inspection and fix your furnace leak before it causes more damage!