Why Is My Furnace Leaking?
In a perfect setting, all our machines and equipment will work like brand new forever. Unfortunately, this is not the case as they eventually grow old and succumb to wear and tear. Modern furnaces are built to last a long time. However, they are not indestructible. Something will go wrong down the line, and you might find your furnace experiencing some issues, such as leaking. A gas furnace leaking water results in an inconvenient and uncomfortable home environment.
Reasons For Furnace Leaks
Contents
In this article, we discuss the causes of furnace leaks, some furnace troubleshooting tips, and what you can do to address the issue.
HVAC Condensation Leak
Condensation forms during the heat process of your furnace. These droplets are drained through the pipes or a floor drain. If the pipes get clogged or damaged, the water will leak out of your heating system instead. You are likely to see water pooling at the base of your furnace if this is the case.
HVAC Humidifier Leak
Is your humidifier connected to your HVAC system? If so, check your humidifier. Humidifiers generate moisture to keep the air from becoming too dry. Any humidifier issues can lead to a leak in your furnace, which might be the reason for the leak in your furnace.
Air Conditioner Leak
If you use your AC system and furnace simultaneously and there is leaking, the cooling system might be the cause. Condensation in the AC is drained into the condensation pan. When it is full, water can drip into your furnace. As the water is leaking out of your heating system, you would mistake the leak to be coming from the furnace instead of your A/C.
Plumbing Leak
A plumbing system leak negatively affects your furnace. Any clogged parts or damaged pipes in the plumbing system will clog water and debris. As a result, the drainage won’t be able to flow correctly and will back up instead. You are likely to see a leak at the base of your furnace if this is the case. Contact a professional to have your plumbing pipes inspected and repaired or replaced right away.
Clogged Filter
The furnace filter collects dirt and dust so that you can enjoy a high level of indoor air quality. However, it can get clogged over time. Air cannot flow properly when this happens. Your system might have frozen coils or clogged pipes. The latter can cause leaking, and you will notice a water puddle around your furnace. Make sure to check the filter and clean or replace it when needed.
Heat Exchanger Issue
When you have checked everything else and still cannot find the leak’s cause, it is time to take a look at your heat exchanger. Unfortunately, heat exchanger leaks can be severe, and the repair is typically expensive. If there are severe damages, you might even need to have a new unit installed instead. This can be serious and costly. Discuss the issue with your local, trusted technician so you can have the best possible solution to your heat exchanger problem.
Steps To Take When You Notice A Furnace Leak
Contact a reliable furnace repair company when you notice any leaking from your heating system. While you wait for help to arrive, here are a few steps you can take:
Shut off your furnace immediately. If you cannot locate the power button, switch your furnace off via the breaker.
The furnace base should be kept dry as much as possible. Use a mop, rags, or a wet-dry vacuum to remove water. This way, any water damage to your home and system is prevented.
Check the furnace filter, especially if it hasn’t been cleaned or replaced lately. If it is dirty, clean or replace it immediately.
Hiring A Professional Heating Repair Company
Never conduct DIY repairs on your furnace if you have not undergone the proper training to do so. Unless what needs to be done is as simple as filter replacement, it is not recommended to service your system yourself. You might cause more harm than good if you do not know what you are doing. You might even end up having to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on HVAC repairs and replacement.
Your HVAC system is a piece of specialized equipment comprised of complex parts. Therefore, avoid calling your neighborhood handyman as well. It is best to contact a professional furnace repair technician to repair, diagnose, and resolve all your heating system problems. An HVAC expert has the right tools, training, experience, and knowledge to ensure that all furnace services are done correctly and on time.
Conclusion
Our furnaces are what keeps our home safe, warm, and comfy during the winter season. When they experience any problems, their efficiency and your home comfort drastically decrease. A leaking problem with a well-maintained unit is most likely easily fixed. If you have an older HVAC system, have your local, trusted HVAC contractor do a thorough checkup so that proper repairs are done.
Call Townsend Energy For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
Townsend Energy provides high-quality HVAC services in Northeastern Massachusetts, Southern Maine, and Southern New Hampshire. We only have the best certified and trained contractors who can conduct superior HVAC maintenance, repairs, installations, replacements, and more. Each of our friendly techs is knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced to ensure safe and accurate services at all times.
Townsend Energy guarantees affordable and the most competitive heating and cooling services prices in the area. Our maintenance services help improve comfort, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. We can also assist you when you need to replace your existing HVAC unit. Our techs can find the best-fitting make and model for your home needs while staying within your budget. All our services come with a guarantee. Book a service appointment with us today for a free, no-obligation, in-home estimate.
Contact us now at (800) 722-4101 to find out more!