If you’ve noticed water dripping from your AC vent, it’s more than just a nuisance—it could be a sign of a larger issue in your cooling system. In the hot, humid climate of Moncks Corner, SC, moisture problems can quickly lead to mold, damage, or reduced AC performance.
At Pointer Cooling & Heating, we’ve helped hundreds of Lowcountry homeowners figure out why their vents are leaking and what to do next. Let’s take a closer look at what might be going on.
Water Dripping from AC Vent Due to Condensation Buildup
The most common reason for water dripping from an AC vent is condensation. Your air conditioner cools the air by removing heat and moisture. In South Carolina’s humid summers, that moisture can build up quickly—especially if the system isn’t draining properly.
If the ductwork is too cold or the surrounding attic space is humid, condensation can form on or around the vent. Over time, that water may drip down into the room below.
A Clogged Drain Line Can Back Up Water
Every central AC system has a drain line that carries condensation away from the evaporator coil and outside your home. But if that line becomes clogged with algae, debris, or dirt, the water can back up and overflow into the air ducts or surrounding insulation.
When that happens, it may show up as water dripping from the AC vent, even though the actual issue is in the air handler or drain pan. You might also notice water pooling near your indoor unit or a musty odor coming from your vents.
Dirty Air Filters Can Restrict Airflow and Cause Freezing
If your air filter is dirty or clogged, it can restrict airflow through the system. When there’s not enough air passing over the evaporator coil, it can get too cold and freeze up. As the ice melts, water may drip into your ductwork and make its way to the vents.
To avoid this, check and replace your filter regularly—ideally every 1 to 3 months, or more often during heavy use.
Poor Insulation May Cause Water Dripping from AC Vent
In many homes, the ducts run through unconditioned spaces like attics or crawl spaces. If those ducts aren’t properly insulated, the cold air inside them can react with the warm, humid air outside—causing condensation on the outer surface of the duct.
That moisture can collect and drip through gaps or at the vent opening, making it look like the AC vent is leaking. Properly sealing and insulating the ductwork can often solve the problem.
Leaky Ducts Can Pull in Moisture
Ductwork that’s cracked, loose, or improperly sealed can allow warm, humid air from outside or the attic to mix with the cold air inside the system. This temperature difference can create condensation inside the ducts, leading to moisture dripping from the vents.
Leaky ducts can also make your system less efficient and increase your energy bills. A professional inspection and sealing can help stop the leaks and improve overall performance.
Overflowing Drain Pan
Your AC system has a drain pan beneath the evaporator coil to catch excess condensation. If the pan becomes rusted, cracked, or full due to a clogged drain line, it can overflow—causing water to travel through the duct system and exit at the nearest vent.
You may not notice this until water begins to visibly drip. If your unit is in the attic, you might also see water spots on the ceiling or around vent openings.
Mold or Mildew Can Be a Sign of a Moisture Problem
If you’ve noticed a musty smell along with the water dripping from your AC vent, it could be a sign that moisture has been building up for a while. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, dark areas—like air ducts.
This isn’t just a comfort issue—it’s a health concern too. Mold spores can affect indoor air quality and aggravate allergies or asthma. A thorough inspection and cleaning may be needed to eliminate the source and prevent further growth.
What to Do if You See Water Dripping from Your AC Vent
Here are some quick steps to take if you notice water coming from your vents:
-
Turn off the AC to prevent further water damage
-
Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty
-
Inspect visible ductwork for gaps or sweating
-
Look for water near your indoor unit or attic access
-
Call a licensed HVAC technician for an inspection
If left unchecked, even a small drip can lead to ceiling damage, mold, and more expensive repairs.
Call Pointer Cooling & Heating for Expert AC Repair
If you’ve got water dripping from an AC vent in your Moncks Corner home, don’t wait to get it looked at. The sooner you address it, the less likely you are to face long-term damage.
At Pointer Cooling & Heating, we provide fast, honest service backed by years of experience. We’ll inspect your system, identify the cause, and get your AC working like it should—cool, dry, and efficient.
Call us today to schedule your inspection and get the comfort and peace of mind you deserve.
