Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?

Your furnace works hard to keep you warm during the cold winter months. With all it does for your home, your furnace will inevitably have an issue at some point.

No one wants to deal with their furnace or HVAC leaking water. Unfortunately, water leaks are one of the most common problems with furnaces. While a small amount of leaking water may not seem like a big deal, it is important to call for repairs right away, as leaking water is a sign of an underlying issue.

If you are not familiar with heating systems, you may be left wondering, “Why is my furnace leaking water in the winter?” Read on for some of the most common reasons for furnace water leaks.

Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?

While every furnace issue is unique, there are some common reasons your furnace could be leaking water.

Condensation Leak

One of the most common water-related issues with heaters is a condensation leak in the furnace. Most modern furnaces have two heat exchanges which, when running, produce condensation. The moisture from the condensation escapes through pipes and usually goes through a floor drain.

If you notice excess water, it could mean a clogged condensation drain or pipe or even a break in the condensation line. Fixing a condensation leak is a routine repair for a professional, but it needs to be addressed in a timely manner before the problem gets worse.

Leaky AC Unit

Depending on the weather where you live, you may use your AC and furnace during the same time of year. If this is the case for you, it is important to pay attention to which systems are on during the leak. If your furnace is leaking water when the AC is off, then you can rule out an AC leak.

On the other hand, if your furnace is leaking when the AC is on, it is a good idea to check the condensation pan. Most AC systems have a condensation pan that fills up with water. If it gets too full, it can overflow and drip onto your furnace. This can make it look like water is coming from your furnace when the AC is actually the culprit.

If you notice your HVAC dripping water in excessive amounts, that is a strong sign of an underlying issue that needs to be repaired by a professional.

Humidifier Leak

Especially in dry climates, some furnaces have attached humidifiers that add moisture to the air. If you have a humidifier attached to your furnace and notice a leak, it could just as easily be the furnace humidifier leaking water.

When this happens, it could be due to a broken internal part or a clog somewhere in the system that needs to be addressed by a professional.

Filter Clog

No matter what type of furnace you have, filters are a critical part of the system. Filters clean the air and keep unwanted debris out, which means they can get full and clogged over time.

A clogged filter can lead to a number of problems, including limited airflow and water leaks. If your furnace is leaking when the heat is on, make sure to check the filter and call a professional for an inspection.

Plumbing Leak

Furnace leaks are not always what they appear to be. Sometimes what looks like a furnace leak is actually water coming from your plumbing.

Water leaking from plumbing systems is never a good thing, and it is a problem that is unlikely to resolve itself. Plumbing leaks can be as simple as a clog but could also indicate a larger issue like a damaged pipe. Either way, a professional should be called in to examine the issue and fix it properly.

Furnace Leaks Should Be Addressed By a Professional

When you notice a leak, you may be wondering if a furnace leaking water is dangerous. The answer is that it can be. If your oil furnace is leaking water, the risk of harm is generally lower, but leaving an underlying issue unaddressed can seriously damage your furnace.

If your gas furnace is leaking water, you should call for repairs immediately. Underlying issues with a gas furnace can contribute to carbon monoxide leaks and even the risk of an explosion.

A professional will diagnose an issue with your furnace quickly and make the necessary repairs or provide furnace replacement options, so you’ll have total peace of mind that your furnace is functioning safely.

While you are waiting for a professional to arrive, make sure to turn off the furnace and clean up any water on the floor.

Trust TSS Home Comfort for Your Furnace Repair Needs

TSS Home Comfort has been committed to fair and honest service for over 35 years. We strive to keep our repair costs low, and we never recommend work unless it is necessary.

All of our technicians are handpicked, licensed, and background-checked. When you choose TSS Home Comfort, you can rest assured that you are hiring a trusted professional who has the experience and knowledge necessary to repair your furnace.

If you find yourself wondering why your furnace is leaking water, give our team a call right away!