Aircon Leaking Water? Causes & Repair in Singapore

Why Your Aircon Is Leaking Water

Water dripping from your aircon is one of the most common complaints in Singapore. The good news is that most water leaks are caused by issues that can be resolved quickly and affordably. Here’s a complete guide to understanding and fixing the problem. For an in-depth look at every possible cause, see our detailed article on aircon leaking water causes.

How Aircon Drainage Works

Your aircon naturally produces condensation as it cools the air. This moisture collects on the evaporator coil and drips into a drainage tray, which channels the water through a drainage pipe to the outside. When any part of this system is blocked or malfunctioning, water leaks into your room instead.

Common Causes of Aircon Water Leaks

1. Clogged Drainage Pipe (Most Common)

Over time, dirt, mould, and algae build up inside the drainage pipe, gradually blocking water flow. When the pipe is fully blocked, water overflows from the drainage tray into your room.

Signs: Water dripping from the front or sides of the indoor unit.

Fix: Drain clearing or chemical wash to clean the entire drainage system.

2. Dirty Air Filters

When filters are clogged with dust, airflow across the evaporator coil is restricted. This causes the coil to become too cold, forming ice. When the ice melts, it produces more water than the drainage tray can handle.

Signs: Ice visible on the coil or copper pipes, water dripping after the unit has been running for a while.

Fix: Clean or replace the air filters. If ice has already formed, turn off the unit for 2 hours to defrost.

3. Low Refrigerant Gas

Similar to dirty filters, low refrigerant causes the evaporator coil to freeze. When the ice melts, excess water overflows the drainage tray.

Signs: Reduced cooling performance combined with water leaks, ice on the coil.

Fix: Gas top-up from $50/unit, plus leak repair to prevent recurrence.

4. Installation Defect

If the drainage pipe wasn’t installed at the correct angle (slope), water can’t flow properly to the outside. This is more common in newer installations or units that have been moved.

Signs: Persistent water leaks from a relatively new unit that worked fine initially.

Fix: Adjusting the drainage pipe angle or re-routing the drainage.

5. Cracked or Overflowing Water Tray

In older units, the plastic drainage tray can crack or warp, causing water to leak instead of flowing to the drainage pipe.

Signs: Water dripping from unexpected locations on the unit.

Fix: Water tray replacement — a straightforward repair.

What to Do When Your Aircon Is Leaking

Immediate Steps

1. Turn off the aircon to stop producing more condensation
2. Place a towel or container under the drip to protect your floor
3. Check the air filter — if it’s dirty, clean it
4. Contact us via WhatsApp for same-day service

When to Call a Professional

• Water is actively dripping and won’t stop
• You’ve cleaned the filters but the leak persists
• There’s ice visible on the unit
• The leak has been getting worse over time
• Water is dripping near electrical components

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Active water leaks should be addressed promptly to prevent damage. WhatsApp us at +65 9427 3833 for same-day emergency service.