Are you experiencing problems with your furnace system? Beat the cold, and contact Green Energy Mechanical Inc. for a speedy resolution.
Winters in Massachusetts are cold, with temperatures easily dipping to as low as 16 degrees and 50 inches of snow. The last thing your family needs over this period is furnace trouble. That’s why discovering a huge puddle of water dripping from your unit is worrisome, to say the least.
Why is my furnace leaking water in the winter? If you’re frantically researching solutions to prevent a furnace shutdown, don’t panic, but don’t ignore the issue, either. As the leading name for furnace repair in Canton, Green Energy Mechanical Inc. has seen all possible causes of winter furnace water leakage, as shared below.
Water Leaking From Your Furnace Is Always a Problem
The first thing you should know when troubleshooting furnace water leaks in winter is that your conventional furnace shouldn’t leak water. If the unit leaks, you will need to schedule repairs quickly.
However, it’s helpful to note that high-efficiency furnaces do generate a significant amount of condensation while they run. Otherwise, the probable cause of furnace condensation issues in winter could be misalignment within the components.
How To Check Your Furnace’s Efficiency Rating
So, since you can expect some “leakage” in the form of condensation from your high-efficiency furnace, how can you confirm it’s only condensation? Check the yellow EnergyGuide label on the furnace body.
Is the AFUE rating 90% or higher? You have a high-efficiency furnace.
Alternatively, look at the vent pipes. Typically, high-efficiency systems have PVC plastic pipes. Conventional furnaces should have metal pipes.
The Main Reasons for Furnace Water Leaks in Cold Weather
Why is my furnace leaking water in the winter? Before we delve into the common causes of furnace water leaks in cold weather, let’s point out that the cold weather isn’t the problem. The furnace will also leak in the summer if you use it without fixing it.
Some of the most common reasons for furnace leaks in the winter include the following:
Condensation Leaks
Those condensation issues from the high-efficiency furnace happen because the system extracts heat from exhaust gasses. Then, the cool exhaust gas produces condensation, which will flow down through a drain line. Clogs or cracks in this drain line or condensate traps will cause water leaks.
- For clogs, flush the line with vinegar and hot water. You may need to repeat the process several times to see any results.
- For cracks, call a technician like Green Energy Mechanical Inc. to replace the affected parts.
Dirty Furnace Filter
Can you remember the last time you cleaned your furnace filter? In cold weather, furnace water drips when the unit’s filter has accumulated too much dirt.
A dirty furnace filter is always problematic because it will cause the unit to work harder as it tries to push warm air through the filters. With warmer air lingering, condensation will cause water leaks on the floor around the furnace. You may be able to clean the furnace filter if you can get to it, but a professional maintenance session will also take care of this task.
Heat Exchanger Problems
Cracks in the heat exchanger increase the risk of condensation leaks and pooling around your furnace. In high-efficiency furnaces, the primary heat exchanger is close to the burners and at risk of cracking.
Cracked heat exchangers significantly reduce your furnace system’s efficiency and longevity. You’ll need to replace the affected part quickly.
Broken Humidifier
HVAC technicians will usually attach a whole-house humidifier to your furnace. This attachment ensures a stable moisture content in the heated air.
However, any cracks in the connection or problems with the fitting will cause water leaks from the humidifier lines.
One More Furnace-related Consideration—Plumbing Leaks
Are there still unexplained water leaks evident around your furnace? Check the plumbing connections. Even a small crack may cause leaks.
If you spot this type of problem, call a plumber to fix it as soon as possible. While your furnace might be fine, you risk water damage by ignoring plumbing leaks.
Get Yourself Premium-Quality Furnace Services From the HVAC People in Canton, Massachusetts, Today!
Why is my furnace leaking water in the winter? If you’re in Canton, Massachusetts, turn to the team at Green Energy Mechanical Inc. for speedy, personalized solutions. Our extensive experience ensures reliable results, whether you notice a furnace is not working after a power outage or there’s obvious leaking water from your furnace during winter.
Call Green Energy Mechanical Inc. today at (877) 565-4621!
