+60 102959071
Air Conditioning

Why Your Aircon Is Leaking Water and How to Fix It: A Guide to All Malaysians

August 17, 2025 admin No Comments

It is shocking to find your air conditioner dripping water at the time when you really need it on a hot day in Malaysia. Leaking of water is one of the widespread aircon issues among homeowners and businesses in Kuala Lumpur and other parts of Malaysia. It is useful to understand why it occurs and how to deal with it so that you can avoid having to deal with expensive repairs and rather awkward moments.

And given the fact that you have somehow developed a leaking aircon, the following is a detailed guide that will assist in finding the causes, when to attempt to do it yourself, and when to start looking up professional aid.

AC maintenance

Part 1: How Your Aircon Makes Water

Before going into the reasons why air conditioners may be leaking water, it should be made clear that leaking water is a natural process involved in the functioning of air conditioners. Your AC will evaporate the moisture out of the air during cooling down in the hot, humid climate like in Malaysia. This water would flow out through a drainage system well marked out – failure of which results to undesirable leakage.

At times when humidity is high in Malaysia, one split unit can make 5-20 liters of water per day. Such a production of water is very natural but the problem comes up when the drainage system breaks off or is clogged.

Top 8 Causes Why Your Aircon Is Leaking Water

1. Blocked Drainage Pipe (Most Likely Cause)

The Problem: Malaysia is a hot and humid environment that favors algae, molds and bacteria growth in the drainage pipes. These together with dust and debris work to create blockages that do not allow the efficient drainage of water.

Symptoms: Dripping water in the indoor unit, musty smell and poor cooling.

DIY Fix:

  • Find the outlet pipe to drainage (often on outside of your house)
  • Blockages can be sucked out using a wet/dry vacuum
  • Flushing in clean water adding some drops of bleach
  • To test the flow, pour the water in drain pan

When to Call a Professional: The inability to reach the drainage system without risking own safety, or blockage remains after the cleaning.

2. Filthy Air Filter

The Problem: Urban dusty environment in Malaysia filters can get clogged easily. The more the dust the faster the filters clog. The clogged filters lead to a reduced amount of airflow leading to evaporator coils freezing and overflowing after they become defrosted.

Symptoms: Decline in airflow, freezing of coils, accumulation of water near it.

DIY Fix:

  • Switch AC off and take the filter out
  • Wash in soaps and water
  • Dry, then reinstall
  • Renew when broken or very soiled

Prevention: Clean cleaners once a month when in heavy use, change every 3-6 months.

3. Low Levels of Refrigerant

The Problem: Lack of refrigerant leads to coiling up of evaporator. Once ice is melted, an excessive amount of water is created compared to the capacity of drainage system.

Symptoms: Frost on evaporator coils, system cooling, hissing, increased electric bills.

Special Service Note: The handling of refrigerants needs licensed technicians. This cannot be a do-it-yourself lowering and needs a refrigeration system expert.

4. Faulty Installation or Improper Slope

The Problem: In case your AC is not leveled correctly or the drainage pipe does not have the right slope, the water flow out is prevented by resisting the drainage channel and enters the unit instead.

Symptoms: Water leaking all the time no matter how it is cleaned, water standing in drain pan.

Technical Analysis Required: The right installation should be done by a professional i.e., the professional might be needed to reframe the unit and put the drainage pipes in place.

5. Damaged/Disconnected Drain Pan

The Problem: Condensation falls into the drain pan, and not to the drainage pipe. The water may leak inside your room, due to cracks, rust and improper alignment.

Symptoms: Dripping of water at the area slightly below indoor unit and visibly damaged drain pan.

DIY Diagnosis: The drain pan is visually accessible, though it will most likely need a professional to replace.

6. Evaporator Coil Frozen

The Problem: Coils may freeze due to various issues such dirty filters, low refrigerant, or vents, that may be blocked. As it melts, it overflows the drainage system with more water than it can be drained.

Symptoms: Presence of ice on coils, low airflow, over spill of water as the ice thaws.

Immediacy: Turn off the AC in order to thaw it, followed by underlying causes (cleaning the filter, vents check).

7. Giant AC Unit

The Problem: Over-sized AC Unit: A unit that is too big cools within a short time but does not have time to sufficiently dehumidify resulting in a build-up of humidity and possible drainage.

Indicators: Shorter cooling cycles, elevated humidity levels even when cooled, uneven comfort level.

Professional Assessment: Type of work that needs load calculations with the help of trained professionals in order to establish the right size of AC.

8. Ageing of Components and Components Breakage

The Problem: Older units can be outdated having aged seals, corrosion of drain pans and failing pumps, unable to cope with regular production of water.

Indicators: Having more than one problem at a time, repeated repairs required or seen signs of corrosion or wear and tear.

Quality: Detailed work that involves measuring of the repair vs. replace.

ac repairing services

Troubleshooting Guide Step By Step

What to Do the Moment You Realize That Your Tap Is Leaking

  1. Turn off the AC: Avoid additional water damage and inspection
  2. For the Water Contains: Cover floors and furniture with towels or containers
  3. Look for the Obvious: Visible obstructions, clogged filters or ice build up
  4. Write the Problem: Take pictures to insure or provider claims notes

Do It Yourself Inspection Checklist

Safety First: Never expose your electricity to conduct electrical checks on the components without switching off.

Filter Condition: Replace and look through to see any dirt, damage, and/or blockages
Drain Pan: Look for cracks, rust or torn portion
Drainage Outlet: Look outside outlet drainage point to see any blockages
Ice Formation: Look at evaporator coils to see whether they are frozen
Unit Level: Provide indoor unit suitably placed
Evident Breakdown: Search freeze, loose parts or damage

In Situations in Which DIY Solutions Fail

When basic troubleshooting does not help eradicate water leakage, or find out that your problem is more complicated than simple cleaning, you should seek professional help. Some issues are not simple and demand specialist tools and specialists with possible resources (parts) that only competent technicians should deal with.

Professional Help: Aircond Service in Selangor

When It Is Time to Call the Pros

  • Refrigerant Problems: Refrigerant systems are only supposed to be addressed by certified technicians
  • Electrical Problems: The electrical problems should be addressed by a professional as soon as there are signs of it
  • Installation Problems with Structures: Poor mounting or slope of drainage should be corrected by a professional
  • Many Things at Once: Complex problems point toward problems in systems
  • Safety Issues: In case you are uncomfortable by any part of examination or repair

Selection of a Service Provider

Searching on the topic: aircond service near me in Malaysia may require paying attention to the following aspects:

Licensing and Certification:

  • Legit real enterprise registration (SSM)
  • Refrigeration handling certifications
  • Property protection under insurance cover

Familiarity with the Local Conditions:

  • Knowledge of the wet Malaysian climate predicament
  • Understanding of typical local installation practice
  • Experience in drainage problems which are peculiar to tropical regions

Service Scope:

  • There is emergency repair capability
  • Assessment and mitigation of water damage
  • Preventive maintenance programs
  • Repair warranty on work done

HVAC in Selangor: What Do I Get?

The hvac in Selangor is the term which includes the services of heating, air conditioning, and ventilation. Usually this entails the following meaning in the context of Malaysia:

  • Air Conditioning Specialists: Specialized units who only work on AC repair and maintenance
  • General HVAC Contractors: Broader build systems for climate control
  • Emergency Services: 24/7 service to make repairs
  • Commercial HVAC: Business-level systems and industrial work

In the case of residential water leakage, air conditioning expert may have the most specific expertise and the most economical solutions to the problem.

Efficient Air Conditioning Repair Service Solutions

Expectations of the Professional Service

Initial Assessment (RM 50-100):

  • Comprehensive system inspection
  • Leak source identification
  • Damage assessment
  • Repair estimate and timeline

Common Professional Repairs:

  • Drainage system cleaning and repair: RM 80-200
  • Refrigerant leak detection and repair: RM 150-400
  • Component replacement (drain pan, pumps): RM 100-300
  • System reinstallation or adjustment: RM 200-500

Advanced Solutions:

  • Drainage system redesign for chronic issues
  • Preventive maintenance programs
  • System upgrades for better humidity control
  • Water damage restoration coordination

Emergency vs. Scheduled Service

Emergency Service Indicators:

  • Significant water damage occurring
  • Electrical safety concerns
  • Complete system failure during extreme heat
  • Water affecting electrical outlets or wiring

Scheduled Service Appropriate For:

  • Minor, contained leakage
  • Preventive maintenance
  • Non-urgent component replacement
  • Seasonal system preparation

Prevention: Avoiding Future Water Leakage

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Monthly Tasks:

  • Clean or replace air filters
  • Check drainage outlet for blockages
  • Inspect visible components for damage
  • Monitor system performance and efficiency

Quarterly Professional Service:

  • Deep cleaning of coils and drainage system
  • Refrigerant level check
  • Electrical connection inspection
  • System efficiency assessment

Annual Comprehensive Service:

  • Complete system overhaul
  • Preventive component replacement
  • Drainage system redesign if needed
  • Efficiency optimization

Malaysia-Specific Prevention Tips

Humidity Control:

  • Use appropriate AC sizing for your space
  • Maintain proper ventilation in AC rooms
  • Address sources of excess humidity (cooking, bathing)

Monsoon Season Preparation:

  • Clear drainage outlets before rainy season
  • Inspect outdoor units for weather damage
  • Ensure proper drainage slope maintenance

Urban Environment Considerations:

  • More frequent filter changes in dusty areas
  • Regular coil cleaning in polluted environments
  • Protection of outdoor units from debris

Cost Breakdown for Water Leakage Repairs

DIY Solution Costs

  • Replacement filters: RM 20-50
  • Basic cleaning supplies: RM 10-30
  • Drain cleaning tools: RM 30-80
  • Total DIY Investment: RM 60-160

Professional Service Costs

  • Diagnostic fee: RM 50-100
  • Basic drainage cleaning: RM 80-150
  • Component replacement: RM 100-400
  • System adjustment/reinstallation: RM 200-600
  • Emergency service premium: +50-100% of standard rates

Long-term Value Consideration

While professional service costs more initially, consider these factors:

  • Prevent Property Damage: Water damage can cost thousands in repairs
  • System Longevity: Proper repairs extend AC lifespan significantly
  • Energy Efficiency: Correct operation reduces electricity bills
  • Warranty Protection: Professional repairs often include service guarantees

Water Damage Prevention and Mitigation

Immediate Damage Control

When water leakage occurs:

  1. Document Everything: Photos for insurance claims
  2. Remove Valuables: Protect furniture, electronics, and documents
  3. Increase Ventilation: Use fans to prevent mold growth
  4. Monitor for Mold: Check within 24-48 hours for signs of mold development

Insurance Considerations

Many Malaysian home insurance policies cover water damage from appliance malfunction, but coverage varies. Check your policy for:

  • AC-related water damage coverage
  • Claim documentation requirements
  • Approved repair service providers
  • Coverage limits and deductibles

Signs Your AC Needs Professional Attention

Red Flag Indicators

  • Persistent Leakage: Water continues after basic troubleshooting
  • Multiple Issues: Several problems occurring simultaneously
  • Electrical Concerns: Any signs of electrical problems near water
  • Structural Damage: Water has affected walls, ceiling, or flooring
  • Health Concerns: Mold growth or persistent musty odors

Performance Decline Signs

  • Reduced cooling efficiency despite repairs
  • Higher electricity bills without increased usage
  • Unusual noises or vibrations
  • Inconsistent temperature control
  • Frequent cycling on and off

Conclusion: How to Maintain Your AC as Dry and Efficient

The problem of water leakage in your air conditioner is a common but solvable one, in the humid climate of Malaysia. Not all the cases may be fixed with simple DIY repairs, but must professional knowledge be used to avoid expensive repairs and keep harmful damage at bay.

Water leakage management requires more than just a simple understanding of the problem, it starts with knowing how you can personally tackle the problem and when you need professional assistance. Basic malfunctions such as clogged filters or slight drainage congestions are usually handled by a Do It Yourself person but complicated refrigerant problems, electrical, structural malfunctions of any installed structures like the fridge and so on are non Do It Yourself.

The best guarantee against issues related to water leakage is regular maintenance, be it the DIY or professional one. Under such difficult climatic conditions in Malaysia, professional service after every three months and basic monthly service would help you avoid most of the water leaks problem besides ensuring your system stays operational.

When professional assistance is really necessary, do not hurry to select and use service providers of your choice, rather study further to select licensed professional people who know the local conditions and will give comprehensive solutions to the problem. It is important to remember that appropriate repairs and maintenance are the way to avoid the issues and the damage to property and come across more severe problems tomorrow that are even more expensive.

Having a leaking air conditioner that interferes with your comfort and destroys your property is something that you should avoid. Preventive care, proper knowledge, and professional assistance in situations where the latter cannot be used may help you keep your AC system running dry and efficient years after.

Leave a Reply