Air conditioners have become an essential part of life for many people, especially those in hotter climates. However, as with any technology, things can and will go wrong with them, and trying to find the cause can be a hassle. One of the big problems with air conditioners is water leaks, the causes can vary. So you may be asking, “Why is my Haier portable air conditioner leaking water?” Here are some ideas and solutions that can help you.
Drainage Types
Before you begin your search for the leak, it’s a good idea to understand the drainage system of the Haier portable air conditioner. Part of the air conditioner’s function is to dehumidify the air, which means the water it removes needs to be collected or removed. Usually, there are two types of drainage system:
Manual Drain
A manual drain system uses a basin or collecting tray to hold the water. The air conditioning unit will usually stop working if the tray is full so that it doesn’t overflow and leak. If there’s a lot of humidity in the air, the air conditioner will fill the tray quicker.
Automatic Drain
Some Haier air conditioners have an automatic drain. This is a pipe that connects to your home drainage system. These types of air conditioners do not require emptying as the water drains as it’s removed from the air.
You may find that either of these systems could be the cause of the water leaking. If the collecting tray is cracked or damaged in some way, then this will cause the water to leak out.
Check The Float Detector
If you have a manual drainage system, then there could be an issue with the float detector. This device gets activated when the water in the tank gets too high and stops the machine. If the switch has stopped working, then the water will just overflow. Check for corrosion in case this is preventing the switch from operating. If there is nothing obvious, then it could need replacing. You may be able to replace this switch with a spare part from the manufacturer.
Check the Drain Pipe
For the automatic version, it’s a good idea to check the pipe coming from the air conditioner to the drain. Look for signs of damage or holes that may be causing the water to leak out. It’s also a good idea to check the drain in case of blockage. If there is no evidence of damage or blockage, but no water is coming through the drainpipe, then there could be an issue inside the machine where the pipe connects. Clean and replace any damaged pipes and check regularly for any build-up.
Structural Damage
If the drainage system is working normally, the next step is to check for any structural damage caused by rust or wear and tear. Check for any areas that may be leaking inside the machine, and see if you can see where it is coming from. Check the internal pipes for rust or breaks. You may be able to repair holes or cracks using waterproof tape, but the best solution is to replace the part of the pipe if possible.
Dirty Air Filter
Although it may seem simple, a dirty air filter can cause access to condensation that builds up in the air conditioning unit. This may then seem like the unit is leaking. Clean or replace the air filter and observe for any more leaking.
Leaking Refrigerant
If you’ve experienced a drop in the air conditioning performance along with leaking, then this could indicate a refrigerant leak. You may also be able to hear a “hiss” where the leak is which is a common sign. If you have a leak in the refrigerant, then you need to contact Haier if the unit is still in warranty. If not, then the best advice is to replace the air conditioner.
So, why is my Haier portable air conditioner leaking water? Well, the answer could be several reasons, the most common is a problem with the water drainage system, so that’s the first place to look. However, if you are unsure of what to do, then you need to seek advice from an AC expert or an HVAC (heating, venting, and air conditioning) specialist.
