hvac troubleshooting
Condensate pump overflow/leak
Common symptoms: water near air handler; condensate leak; pump overflow; drain pan water
Stop and call a pro if:
- water near electrical
- smoke
- sparks
Step-by-step diagnostic flow
Step 1
Any water near electrical, smoke, or sparks?
Step 2
Is there visible water around the air handler, drain pan, or pump?
Step 3
When cooling runs, does the pump operate (sound or vibration) or is it silent?
Possible outcomes
Stop and seek professional help immediately
high confidenceWater and electrical hazards.
Safe next steps
- Turn system off if safe to do so
Condensate pump fault possible
medium confidencePump attempts but does not clear water.
Safe next steps
- Photograph pump model/labels
- Record sounds/video
What to document for a pro
- Pump model
- Sound recordings
- Water level photos
Drain blockage possible
medium confidenceSilent pump with water present.
Safe next steps
- Photograph drain line and termination point
- Note when leak occurs
What to document for a pro
- Drain line photos
- Leak timing
- AC model
Downstream drainage restriction possible
low confidencePump runs but water persists.
Safe next steps
- Document frequency and volume of water
- Note if issue coincides with long cooling runs
What to document for a pro
- Pump model
- Water volume logs
- AC run times
Further professional diagnosis recommended
low confidenceNo obvious signs.
Safe next steps
- Capture environment photos and notes
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