Why Is My Heater Leaking Water?

January 8, 2020

A puddle of water below a heater means that something has gone wrong. Without timely repair, water damage or mold growth could occur in your home.

High-Efficiency Gas Furnace Leaks

Modern high-efficiency furnaces extract as much heat as possible from their combustion chambers. This process results in the exhaust gases cooling somewhat, which allows condensation to form. The heater will route the condensation to a floor drain or condensation pump. A high-efficiency furnace has an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency rating of 90% or better. The source of a leak might be a clogged condensation drain or tube, a condensation tube that is broken or a failed condensation pump.

Leaks in Standard Furnaces

Furnaces with AFUE ratings below 90% should not produce condensation. If you’re seeing water by a standard-efficiency furnace, the flue pipe might be the wrong size. The exhaust going through the flue could be cooling too quickly and forming condensation. Gravity would then move the water back down the exhaust system until it leaks out.

Due to safety concerns, professional technicians should attend to furnace repairs, especially if an exhaust problem has developed. Team members at Quinte Air Supply in Belleville, ON, are trained to repair all types of furnaces, boilers and heat pumps. We also have 24/7 emergency services because sometimes you can’t wait for heat.

Leaking Boilers

As soon as you see a water leak by a boiler, you should seek repairs. A seal or valve on the boiler has likely failed. Leaking water can corrode components and compromise electrical connections.

Do You Have a Humidifier?

If your heating system includes a whole-house humidifier, that machine could be the source of the water buildup. A failed seal could send water into the furnace.

Professional Service

You can depend on Quinte Air Supply for quality service related to any heating, air conditioning or fireplace equipment. We’ve been in business since 1988, and our technicians are licensed to repair all makes and models. We also perform installations and maintenance. Contact us today to fix your leaking heater or answer other questions.

company icon
Categories: