If your top-rated air conditioning unit makes running water noises, you must understand what causes this. You have a potentially severe air conditioner issue, whether you hear dripping sounds or flowing excess water. This can cause water damage to your home if not treated quickly. Even if it’s just the periodic drip sound from time to time, it’s wise to nip the dripping noise in the bud ASAP before this small problem turns into an extremely expensive one. So, if you’re wondering, “Why does my air conditioner sound like running water?” stick around.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- As the condensation hits the drain pan, a dripping water noise is expected during the year’s hottest days.
- If you hear gurgling or bubbling water, you likely have a refrigerant leak or an overcharged coolant system.
- A running water sound indicates a clogged drain line or condensate pan.
Also, if you see standing water in your drain pan, you likely have a clogged condensate drain. Read our guide to pouring vinegar into the AC drain tube to prevent future drainage issues.
Insider Tip
Unlicensed people cannot legally refill refrigerant levels, so you need a professional AC technician to fix a refrigerant leak in a window AC or central unit.
Why Is Water Running in My AC Unit?
An air conditioner pulls warm air from your home and blows it over an evaporator coil that contains refrigerant. Like water droplets on a glass of ice water, the evaporator coil develops condensation as it absorbs heat from the hot and humid air.
The moisture from evaporator condensation should exit your AC system through a condensate drain pipe. So, it is normal to hear a dripping water sound during the humid summer months. That said, if you hear bubbling noises or running water inside your AC unit, you should investigate, as this could be a potentially serious AC issue. If you’re unable to identify the source of the problem, consider enlisting a professional to perform servicing an AC.
Running Water Noises
You likely have an excess water issue if you hear running water noises coming from inside your air conditioner. Whether your AC removes excess water through an evaporator drain or evaporates condensation, a running water sound is a drainage issue.
Look at your drain pan, and see if it is full of water. Excess condensation shouldn’t gather before leaving the drain. If you see standing water in the drain pan, snake the drain or contact an AC repair professional.
Warning
If not quickly addressed, a clogged condensate drain line can cause extensive damage to your home and AC system.
Bubbling or Gurgling Noises
Whether you have a window air conditioner or central unit, these strange noises signify a pressure issue. A refrigerant overcharge or leak can lead to an imbalance of pressure inside the AC unit. Contact a repair professional to correct AC refrigerant imbalances and check your system for compressor valve leaks or other compressor issues.
STAT: According to a 2020 US EIA (Energy Information Agency) survey, 12% of Americans use an AC unit under two years old. (source)
