It’s something we hear all the time around Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Naples. You notice a small puddle near your air conditioner and think, “That can’t be normal.” Then it keeps coming back. Before long, you’re wondering if something’s wrong.
At Gulf Shore Cooling, we’ve seen just about every cause of an AC leaking water in Southwest Florida. Between the humidity, algae growth, and long cooling seasons, it’s a problem that happens more often here than people expect. Here’s what might be going on and what you can do to stop it.
In most cases, your AC leaks water because condensation isn’t draining properly. Clogged drain lines, faulty pans, or frozen coils are all usually the causes. The good news? These issues are easy to fix if caught early.
Common Causes of Air Conditioner Water Leaks
Your air conditioner pulls moisture from the air as it cools your home. Normally, that water drains safely through a small line that runs outside. When that process gets interrupted, the condensation backs up and you start seeing leaks.
Clogged Condensate Drain Line
This one tops the list. In our climate, algae and dirt collect inside the drain line until water has nowhere to go. It backs up into the system and spills over.
We see this all the time in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, where humidity stays high almost year-round. Our technicians can flush the line and get it flowing again.
If you want to prevent clogs altogether, ask about AC Max. It is a treatment we use to help control buildup inside condensate systems and keep drain lines clear. It is an easy add-on during maintenance that makes a big difference.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Frozen coils might sound strange in Florida heat, but it happens. Low refrigerant or poor airflow can cause ice to form on the coils even when it is ninety degrees outside. When that ice melts, water can pour out of the unit and onto the floor.
If you see ice or water around your indoor unit, turn the system off and call us. We will find out why it froze and get it working normally again.
Faulty Drain Pan
That shallow metal pan under your unit catches condensation before it moves down the drain line. Over time, it can rust, crack, or develop small holes. Once that happens, the water has nowhere to go except the floor.
Our team checks the drain pan during every service call and replaces it if it is damaged or corroded. It is a simple repair that prevents a lot of headaches later.
The Fort Myers Connection
Here along the Gulf Coast, the weather plays a big role in AC leaks.
- High humidity means more condensation inside the system.
- Warm air and moisture create perfect conditions for algae growth in drain lines.
- Coastal homes from Naples to Venice see extra wear from salt air.
- Systems in Port Charlotte and Bonita Springs run almost nonstop during summer, which can push small issues into bigger ones.
Even a little excess water can turn into a mess in this kind of climate.
What You Can Do and When to Call a Pro
There are a few quick things you can check before picking up the phone.
- Change your air filter if it is dirty. Restricted airflow can cause leaks.
- Look at your thermostat. If it is set too low, your system may be overworking.
- Find the drain line outside and make sure it is not blocked by debris or algae.
- If you see water pooling, shut off the system to avoid damage.
If the problem keeps coming back, it is time for a technician. Gulf Shore Cooling offers full AC repair in Fort Myers and nearby cities. We clear clogs, replace drain pans, fix frozen coils, and handle emergency calls when leaks get out of hand.
Prevent Future Leaks with Gulf Shore’s Maintenance Programs
Most AC leaks in Fort Myers start with small issues that regular maintenance can catch early. Our air conditioner maintenance services cover homes across Southwest Florida.
During maintenance visits, we:
- Flush and clean condensate drain lines
- Inspect and clean coils and pans
- Check refrigerant levels and airflow
- Test thermostat operation
- Make sure every part is running efficiently and safely
Our maintenance members get priority scheduling, discounts on repairs, and peace of mind knowing their systems are in top shape.
Stop the Leak, Start the Savings: Schedule Your Expert Services Today
A small puddle today can turn into real water damage tomorrow. Let Gulf Shore Cooling take care of it. We provide AC repair, replacement, and maintenance for homeowners in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, and Port Charlotte.
Call Gulf Shore Cooling today to schedule your service. We will stop the leak, protect your system, and keep your home cool and dry.
