Why is My Furnace Leaking Water?

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Why is My Furnace Leaking Water?

A furnace leaking water can be a cause for concern, and several common reasons might explain why this is happening:

1. Condensation Leak (High-Efficiency Furnace)

• High-efficiency furnaces (AFUE rating of 90% or higher) generate condensation as part of their operation. The system's condensate line is responsible for draining this water. If the line gets clogged or damaged, it can result in water leakage around the furnace.

2. Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

• If your furnace uses a condensate pump to remove excess water, and the pump is faulty, the water may not be pumped out properly, leading to leaks.

3. Humidifier Leak

• Furnaces sometimes have built-in humidifiers. If there’s a crack or damage to the water lines feeding the humidifier, it can cause water to leak around the furnace.

4. Clogged or Damaged Drain Line

• The drain line of your HVAC system could be clogged with debris or algae, preventing water from draining away. This can cause water to back up and leak from the furnace area.

5. Broken Heat Exchanger

• A cracked heat exchanger can also cause water leakage, though this issue is more rare. It’s important to address this issue quickly, as a cracked heat exchanger could also leak carbon monoxide into your home.

6. Plumbing Leaks

• Sometimes, the water near your furnace may not be from the furnace at all. Leaking pipes or other plumbing issues could be the actual source, but because the furnace is located nearby, it can seem like the furnace is the issue.

If your furnace is leaking water, it’s important to have it inspected and repaired by a professional HVAC technician. Ignoring the leak can lead to mold, water damage, and more expensive repairs down the line.