You turn on your air conditioner to cool off and suddenly notice water dripping inside the room?
This problem is more common than it seems and, most of the time, has a simple solution.
Internal dripping indicates a failure in the drainage system, lack of maintenance, or even an installation error. Below, see the main causes and what to do to resolve it safely.
1. Dirty air filter — the most common culprit
When the filter is dirty, the air does not circulate correctly. This can cause the internal coil to freeze, and when the ice melts, the water ends up dripping into the room.
What to do:
Unplug the air conditioner
Remove the filter
Wash it with running water
Let it dry completely before replacing it
📌 Perform this cleaning every 15 days, especially during periods of heavy use.
2. Dirty or clogged drain pan
The drain pan is responsible for collecting condensation water. Over time, it can accumulate dust, slime, and mold, causing overflow.
What to do:
Remove the front cover of the evaporator (on split models)
Locate the pan
Clean it with a cloth, water, and a little diluted bleach
Check if the pan's outlet is clear
3. Obstructed or poorly installed drain
If the drain pipe is clogged, twisted, or not at the correct angle, the water cannot drain and ends up returning inside the unit.
What to do:
Check if the hose is bent or clogged.
Use a pump or compressed air to unclog it.
If possible, disconnect and wash the hose.
Ensure it is always tilted downwards.
4. Uneven evaporator
An uneven installation can cause water to drain in the wrong direction, resulting in internal dripping.
What to do:
Check if the unit is slightly tilted backwards.
If it is crooked, call a technician to adjust the mounting.
5. Excess humidity in the environment
Very humid environments produce more water during air conditioner operation, overloading the drainage system.
What to do:
Use the "dry" (dehumidification) mode.
Avoid leaving doors and windows open with the unit on.
6. When the problem is more serious
If the dripping continues even after all these checks, the problem may be in the:
drain pump (in some models),
coil,
or internal system components.
What to do:
Turn off the unit.
Avoid continuing to use it.
Call a specialized technician.
Continuing to use the air conditioner under these conditions can cause damage to the equipment, furniture, and walls.
Conclusion
Internal dripping from the air conditioner is a warning sign that should not be ignored.
In most cases, the solution lies in periodic cleaning, checking the drain, and correct installation.
With regular maintenance, you avoid problems, increase the lifespan of the equipment, and ensure comfort without unpleasant surprises.
