A leaking split system air conditioner is more than just an annoying mess. In a hot Perth summer, it can be the difference between a cool, comfortable home and a frustrating, soggy disaster. Whether you’ve noticed water dripping from the indoor unit or pooling on the floor, you’re probably asking yourself the same question – why is my split system leaking?
At BMS Air, we service and repair all types of air conditioning systems across Perth, and one of the most common issues we get called out to fix is a leaking split system. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the main reasons your unit might be leaking, how serious it could be, and what to do next.
Let’s dive into it
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1. Blocked Drain Line
The most common reason for water leaking from your split system is a blocked condensate drain. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as part of the cooling process. That moisture collects as condensation and is supposed to drain away through a small pipe. If that drain line gets blocked by dust, dirt, or even mould, water backs up and eventually leaks out of the unit.
Signs of a blocked drain line include:
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Water dripping from the indoor unit
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A musty or damp smell near the unit
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Decreased cooling performance
This is a job best left to the pros. At BMS Air, we can quickly inspect and flush the drain line to clear the blockage without damaging the unit.
2. Dirty or Clogged Filters
When was the last time you cleaned your air conditioner filter? If you can’t remember, that might be the culprit. Filters are there to catch dust and debris from the air. When they’re blocked, it restricts airflow, and that can cause the evaporator coil to get too cold and freeze. When it eventually thaws, the excess water can overwhelm the drain system and start leaking.
How to fix it:
Remove the filters and give them a gentle clean with warm water and mild soap. Let them dry fully before reinstalling. You should be doing this every one to two months, especially during summer when the system is working overtime.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
This one’s a bit sneaky. If your split system is low on refrigerant, it can lower the pressure in the system. This makes the evaporator coil colder than it should be, which can cause it to freeze. When the ice melts, it turns into more water than the system can handle, causing leaks.
Signs of low refrigerant include:
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Poor cooling even when the unit is on full blast
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Hissing or bubbling noises
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Ice build-up on the indoor unit
You’ll need a licensed air conditioning technician to handle this. Topping up refrigerant without fixing the underlying leak is like pouring water into a bucket with a hole. We’ll find the source of the leak and seal it properly before refilling the gas to the correct level.
4. Damaged or Disconnected Drain Pan
The drain pan sits underneath the evaporator coil to catch condensation before it drains away. If it’s cracked, rusted, or out of alignment, it won’t catch all the water. That means water can drip straight onto your floor or walls. In older units, this is a common issue due to wear and tear over time.
Solution:
Replacing or re-sealing a damaged drain pan is straightforward for a qualified technician. It’s not a DIY job though, as getting into the unit can damage internal parts if not done correctly.
5. Poor Installation or Tilted Unit
Split systems need to be installed level or on a slight downward tilt toward the drain side. If your unit was poorly installed and is tilted the wrong way, water may not flow into the drain tray properly. Instead, it might pool and spill out the front or sides of the indoor unit.
When to suspect bad installation:
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The unit is leaking soon after installation
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The unit looks visually off-level
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Water drips from odd spots on the casing
If you suspect this is the case, call in a professional to inspect and re-level the unit. It’s usually a simple fix but can cause major damage if left too long.
6. Perth’s Humidity and Seasonal Factors
While Perth is generally dry, the occasional spike in humidity during summer or storm season can lead to excess condensation. If your system isn’t running optimally or the drain line is partially blocked, the extra moisture in the air may push it over the edge, resulting in leaks.
You might notice leaks more frequently during:
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Sudden summer humidity spikes
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Big weather changes
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Periods of heavy use with the unit running non-stop
Regular servicing can help prepare your system for peak seasons and prevent this from becoming an issue.
7. Lack of Regular Servicing
A lot of homeowners in Perth don’t realise how important it is to service their air conditioner regularly. Just like a car needs oil changes and tune-ups, your split system needs professional care to run smoothly. Neglecting regular maintenance is the fastest way to end up with blockages, leaks, or total breakdowns.
What we check during a service at BMS Air:
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Drain line and pan for blockages or damage
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Refrigerant levels and pressure
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Filter cleaning and replacement
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General wear and tear on components
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Electrical safety and system performance
Most systems need a service at least once a year. If you use yours heavily, consider getting it checked every six months.
Is A Leaking Air Conditioner Dangerous?
Short answer – it can be. While a few drips of water might seem harmless, they can lead to:
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Mould and mildew in your walls or ceiling
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Electrical hazards if water gets into power sockets
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Damaged flooring, plasterboard, or paintwork
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A complete system failure if left unchecked
It’s always better to fix a small issue before it becomes a costly one. If you see water where it shouldn’t be, call a technician straight away.
When to Call BMS Air
If your split system air conditioner is leaking, don’t wait. At BMS Air, we’re Perth locals who understand the climate, the conditions, and the most common air conditioning issues homeowners face. Our licensed technicians offer prompt, honest service with no jargon and no surprises.
Whether it’s a small repair, a full system service, or a new aircon install, we’re here to keep you cool and stress-free all year round.
Final Thoughts
A leaking air conditioner might not seem like a big deal at first, but it’s usually a sign that something’s not working properly. From blocked drain lines to refrigerant issues and poor installation, there are plenty of reasons your split system could be dripping. The good news is, most of these issues are fixable when caught early.
Keep your home comfortable and your system running like new with regular maintenance and professional servicing from the team at BMS Air. If you’re based in Perth and want honest advice or fast repairs, give us a call today.
BMS Air – Perth’s Split System Specialists.
