If water leaks from your furnace, you’re probably wondering what to do next.
After all, your furnace is supposed to keep your home warm – not create puddles indoors!
Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with it alone.
Since 1996, we’ve been helping Chicago-area homeowners clean up all kinds of water damage, and we’ve compiled our top tips into this blog.
Key Takeaways
- If your furnace is leaking water, turn off the unit, clean up the water, locate the source of the leak (if you can), and contact an HVAC technician and a water damage restoration professional to begin more extensive repairs.
- Common causes of water leaks include condensation, clogged condensate drains, and faulty heat exchangers.
- Regular maintenance and inspections can prevent leaks and keep your furnace working for as long as possible.
Immediate Steps to Take
1. Turn Off the Furnace
The first and most crucial step is to power down your furnace. This helps prevent electrical hazards and avoid further damage to the unit, if possible.
Here’s how to do it:
- Locate the Power Switch: Find the on/off switch for your furnace, which is usually near the thermostat or the furnace unit itself.
- Shut Off the Circuit Breaker: If you can’t find the switch, turn off the furnace’s circuit breaker to ensure the entire unit is powered down.
2. Clean Up Standing Water
Next, clean up any standing water to minimize damage and decrease the chance of mold growth.
Here’s how to do it:
- Use Absorbent Materials: Grab towels or a mop to soak up larger puddles of water. If the pooling is minimal, a dry/wet vacuum may suffice.
- Check Surrounding Areas: After cleaning up all the visible water, carefully inspect the surrounding areas to identify any hidden pooling or water damage.
- Dry the Area: After the initial clean-up, use fans or dehumidifiers to dry the affected area thoroughly.
3. Locate the Source
Next, you’ll need to identify the source of the leak. This is the only way to repair the issue correctly and prevent future problems.
For more information on locating the source of the leak, check out the next section of this blog.
4. Contact the Pros
Finally, contact the pros needed to fix the furnace issue. You’ll want to call a certified HVAC technician and water restoration professional for a thorough assessment and repair.
If you’re in the Chicago area, ServiceMaster of Lake Shore will provide a quick response and all the expertise needed to restore your home.
Contact us today: (312) 707-8597.
Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?
1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line
How to Check:
Inspect the condensate drain line for blockages, including dirt, leaves, or other debris or buildup that may prevent water flow.
Fixes:
Clear the clog using a wet/dry vacuum or a plumbing snake.
Pour a mixture of vinegar and water into the drain line to help dissolve any buildup.
Pro Tip:
Maintain your condensate drain line by flushing it with vinegar every few months.
2. Faulty Condensate Pump
How to Check:
If your furnace has a condensate pump, listen for unusual noises or check for water pooling around the pump’s base.
Ensure the pump has power, as well, since a faulty pump may be unable to remove condensate effectively.
Fixes:
If the pump is malfunctioning, replace it.
Make sure the pump’s float switch is functioning correctly.
Pro Tip:
Test the pump regularly during the heating season, especially if you have a high-efficiency furnace that generates lots of condensation.
3. Faulty Heat Exchanger
How to Check:
Inspect the heat exchanger for signs of cracks or corrosion.
If your furnace produces unusual odors or you notice water pooling under the unit, it may indicate an issue with the heat exchanger.
Fixes:
If you suspect a faulty heat exchanger, contact a professional repair tech for a comprehensive inspection.
If there’s a minor leak, you may be able to seal it yourself. However, more extensive issues may require replacing the unit.
Pro Tip:
Schedule an annual furnace inspection to catch potential issues early and keep the heat exchanger in good shape.
4. High Humidity Levels
How to Check:
Check your home’s indoor humidity levels using a hygrometer.
High humidity can overwhelm the furnace’s ability to manage condensation.
Fixes:
Use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels throughout the home.
Make sure your furnace is the right size for your home, which will allow it to handle moisture levels effectively.
Pro Tip:
Keep your home’s vents open and unblocked to maintain adequate airflow.
5. Improper Furnace Installation
How to Check:
Hire an HVAC pro to check for any issues with the unit’s installation, such as improper sloping drain lines or incorrect placement.
Fixes:
Contact a certified HVAC technician to assess the installation and make necessary adjustments.
Pro Tip:
Always use qualified professionals for furnace installation to prevent issues that may lead to water leaks in the future.
6. Refrigerant Leaks in AC Furnaces
How to Check:
If your furnace also functions as an air conditioner, signs of a refrigerant leak may include ice buildup on the coils or a reduction in cooling efficiency.
Fixes:
Call a licensed HVAC technician to locate and repair the leak.
After the repair, recharge the system with the appropriate refrigerant.
Pro Tip:
Ensure your HVAC system is professionally cleaned and maintained at least once a year. This is the best way to catch refrigerant issues before they cause leaks.
7. Plumbing Leaks
How to Check:
Inspect areas around your furnace for signs of water accumulation, dampness, or water stains, which may indicate a plumbing leak nearby.
Pay close attention to pipes, fittings, and valves connected to your heating system.
Fixes:
Identify the source of the leak and repair or replace damaged components.
Tighten loose fittings or replace sections of pipe.
Pro Tip:
Regularly inspect your plumbing and heating system for signs of wear that could cause leaks.
Need Help in Chicago? Contact ServiceMaster of Lake Shore
Your furnace is essential to the comfort of your home.
When it starts to leak, it can be confusing, frustrating, and expensive.
Fortunately, you don’t have to face this issue on your own.
Contact the team here at ServiceMaster of Lake Shore, and we’ll help you identify the cause and repair the issue.
FAQs
Is a furnace leaking water dangerous?
Yes, a leaking furnace can pose several risks.
Water accumulation can lead to mold growth, which can affect indoor air quality and pose health risks.
Additionally, prolonged moisture exposure can damage the furnace and other components of your heating system, leading to costly, challenging repairs.
How can I prevent my furnace from leaking water?
To prevent water leakage, have your furnace installed by qualified professionals who can correctly slope drain lines and position the unit.
You should also maintain your heating system regularly, checking for signs of wear that could cause leaks down the road.
Should I repair or replace my leaking furnace?
It depends on the leak’s severity and the unit’s age.
If the furnace is older and needs extensive repairs, replacing it may be more affordable in the long run.
If the leak is minor, you may be able to repair the furnace.
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