Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?

If you’ve noticed water pooling around your furnace, this can be inconvenient and alarming. As your local Cape Cod HVAC professionals, we know how stressful this problem can be. Beyond just making a mess, a leaky furnace could be a sign of serious issues that could impact both your comfort and safety.

Keep reading to learn why your furnace might be leaking, what warning signs to look for, and how our team can assist you.

Signs of a Leak

Even if the leak seems minor, this can still indicate a bigger issue within your heating system. Keep an eye out for warning signs like:

Pooling Water Around the Bottom of Your Furnace

Pooling water is one of the most obvious indicators that your system is struggling to handle the moisture it generates. If not caught early, water can seep into your floor and cause damage or mold growth.

Your Furnace Feels Wet or Damp on the Outside

If your furnace feels moist on the outside, this could indicate that the condensation in your furnace isn’t being vented properly. A damp furnace housing can accelerate rust or corrosion over time, which ultimately shortens the lifespan of essential parts.

You Notice a Musty or Moldy Smell

Off-putting odors can point to moisture in areas where it shouldn’t be. Mold and mildew thrive in damp conditions, causing musty odors to circulate around your space every time the blower runs. Besides being unpleasant, mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in people who are sensitive.

Your Electric Bills Are Going Up

An unexpected increase in your electric bills can be a red flag for hidden furnace leaks. When your system is leaking water, it has to work harder to compensate for lost heat. This causes it to draw more power and puts extra strain on your equipment. By paying close attention to changes in your energy costs, you can catch a potential leak before it escalates into expensive repairs.

Common Reasons for Furnace Leaks

There are several reasons why a furnace might feel wet on the outside or be leaking water. Some of the most common include:

Clogged or Malfunctioning Condensate Components

Many modern, high-efficiency furnaces generate condensation, which gets funneled out through a drain line. Over time, dirt, dust, or other debris can clog that drain, causing water to back up and puddle around the furnace. We can help you determine whether your equipment just needs to be cleaned, or if a replacement is necessary.

A Broken or Rusty Heat Exchanger

Sometimes, internal components like the heat exchanger can crack or corrode. Not only does this cause moisture to escape, it can worsen your indoor air quality and increase your risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Because a damaged heat exchanger is a safety concern, we recommend a thorough professional inspection if you suspect this might be the root cause.

Inadequate Ventilation

Furnaces require proper ventilation to let out combustion gases and moisture. If your vent pipes are installed at the wrong angle or their seals are incomplete, condensation can drip inside the unit. An improperly installed furnace, especially in older homes, can struggle with drainage and begin leaking as a result.

What to Do Next

If you suspect a furnace leak, try to:

Turn Off Your Furnace

One of the first things you should do is turn the system off. Continuing to run a malfunctioning furnace can worsen the underlying issue and potentially cause more damage. By powering the furnace down, you immediately reduce the stress on any failing parts and protect against additional problems.

Look For Noticeable Causes

Once your furnace is off, take a moment to inspect it and look for anything obviously wrong that you can safely identify. A quick peek can tell you if there are loose hoses or cracks that water is actively coming out of.

Contact an HVAC Professional

Once you’ve shut down the furnace and done a basic inspection, the best thing to do is to reach out to a licensed HVAC professional. At Cape Cod Heat Pumps, we can handle everything from minor leaks to major issues, so you can rest assured that your furnace is in great hands. We can also spot other early warning signs beyond just the presence of water and take care of any repairs or replacement parts to prevent future breakdowns.

Why Your Neighbors Trust Cape Cod Heat Pumps for Furnace Repairs

Don’t wait for a minor leak to turn into a major headache. Our experienced heating professionals are ready to identify the root cause of water coming from your furnace and recommend effective solutions. Contact us today to schedule service at 508-833-4822.