Key points
- Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces make water that drains through a small condensate line.
- Algae and debris clog the line; the pan overflows.
- Attic units can leak through the ceiling below.
- Slow leaks often go unnoticed until stains or mold appear.
Warning signs
- Water around the furnace or air handler
- Ceiling stains below an attic unit
- Musty smell when the system runs
- AC shutting off (some units have a float switch that cuts power when the pan fills)
Prevention
- Have the condensate line cleared at each HVAC service
- Check the drain pan for rust or cracks
- Ask your HVAC tech about a float (overflow) switch
If it leaked
Turn off the system, call your HVAC company for the unit, and call us for the water. Wet ceiling drywall and insulation often need to come out so the cavity can dry — see wet insulation and ceiling water damage. Vault documents the damage, records daily moisture readings, scopes in Xactimate, and bills State Farm, USAA, Allstate, Farmers, and Bear River Mutual directly.
Real example: Vineyard case study: HVAC condensate line clog and pan overflow.
HVAC leak?
Call (385) 250-2825 — answered live 24/7 by the Vault crew.
Water damage services · Furnace humidifier leak · Mold in HVAC ducts