Furnaces

Hearing water in your furnace? That’s usually fine. But seeing water? That’s a problem. A furnace leaking water is something you don’t want to ignore.

In this guide, we’ll explain why it’s happening, what to check, and how to fix it. Let’s discuss these in detail.

Common Causes of Furnace Water Leaks

When dealing with furnace water leaks, you must know what type of furnace you have. 

Leaks happen for different reasons based on whether you own a high-efficiency furnace or a standard-efficiency one. Let’s break it down:

High-Efficiency Furnace Leaks

A high-efficiency gas furnace typically has an AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating of 90% or higher, sometimes reaching up to 98.5%.

These furnaces create more condensation, which is often the source of leaks.

1. Clogging of drainage system

Condensation buildup is the most common cause of water leaks in high-efficiency furnaces. These furnaces use two heat exchangers to maximize efficiency, and as a result, they produce a lot of water. This water should drain away through the condensate system, but blockages can cause problems.

When the condensate system clogs, dirty water can back up and leak onto the floor. The main culprits are often the drain trap or the drain hose:

• Drain Trap Blockages: The drain trap can easily clog with dirt and debris, especially if the furnace isn’t cleaned regularly. A blocked trap stops water from draining, leading to leaks. A simple fix is to use a long, flexible cleaning brush to clear out any dirt buildup. Then, flush it by pouring water down the cleanout cap.
• Drain Hose Issues: The drain hose, which connects to the furnace’s PVC exhaust pipe, can also get clogged with dirt, dust, or debris. If this hose is damaged or disconnected, water won’t drain properly and can leak around the furnace. Checking the hose for any blockages or damage and clearing it can prevent further issues.

2. Cracks in a drain pan

The drain pan is a plastic or metal container that sits below the furnace’s evaporator coil to catch any condensation. Over time, this pan can crack due to impacts, pressure from the PVC pipe, or general wear and tear. If water stays in the pan too long, it can lead to rust (in metal pans) or cracks (in plastic pans), causing water to leak.

When the drain pan cracks, water that’s supposed to be collected and drained away will instead leak out, making it seem like your furnace is leaking. It’s easy to replace the pan to avoid ongoing leaks and puddles.

3. Broken condensate pump

The condensate pump is responsible for moving the water produced by your high-efficiency furnace to the drain. These pumps typically last 3 to 6 years. If the pump fails or gets clogged, water will back up and cause a leak around the furnace.

If you suspect the condensate pump is broken or the condensate trap isn’t draining properly, it’s time to call a professional. A faulty pump might need replacement; in rare cases, if the issue is severe, the entire furnace may need replacing.

Standard Efficiency Furnace Leaks

A standard-efficiency furnace has an AFUE rating of around 80%, which means it produces less condensation than high-efficiency models. 

However, water leaks can still happen for various reasons.

1. Issues with humidifiers

If you have a whole-house humidifier connected to your furnace, it could be the source of the leak. Over time, the humidifier’s water line can leak due to a lack of maintenance or cleaning.

Since the humidifier shares the same condensate drain pump with your furnace, a leak in the humidifier can make it look like the furnace itself is leaking. 

Regular cleaning and maintenance of the humidifier can prevent these issues from occurring.

2. Clogged filter

A clogged furnace filter restricts airflow, causing the system to work harder. This extra strain can lead to overheating, and in some cases, it may cause condensation inside the unit. The condensation can leak out around the furnace when it has nowhere to go.

To prevent this, replace your furnace filter every 1 to 3 months. This ensures proper airflow and reduces the chances of condensation buildup and leaks.

3. Heat Exchanger Issue

A cracked or corroded heat exchanger can also lead to furnace leaks. This damage allows water to escape from the system. To identify if the heat exchanger is the problem, check your furnace vents for blockages caused by dust or debris, which can contribute to overheating and damage.

Unfortunately, if your furnace is leaking due to a heat exchanger issue, it often means the furnace will need to be fully replaced. A professional should be called in to inspect and address this serious issue.

Is a Furnace Leaking Water Risky?

While a leaking furnace might not seem like an emergency at first, it can turn dangerous if not addressed quickly. The water inside or around your furnace poses several risks:

• Electrocution: As water levels rise, it can come into contact with electrical components, creating a serious risk of electrocution.
• Short-Circuiting: Water can cause short circuits in your furnace’s electrical system, potentially damaging the unit or starting a fire.
• Mold Growth: Water leaks create a perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow, which can affect indoor air quality and cause health issues for your family.
• Structural Damage: If water leaks onto the surrounding flooring or walls, it can lead to wood rot, warped floors, and costly structural repairs.

To avoid these risks, it’s essential to fix furnace leaks promptly before they escalate into bigger problems.

Professional Solutions for Leaking Furnace

An HVAC professional will begin with a thorough inspection to pinpoint the cause. They’ll first check the furnace condensate drain system for clogs by inspecting the drain lines, drain trap, and condensate pump. 

If any part of the drain system is blocked, they’ll use a cleaning tool to clear the blockage and ensure water can flow properly. They may also test the condensate pump by filling the pump reservoir to confirm it’s functioning correctly.

Next, they’ll examine the drain pan for cracks or rust, especially in older systems. If it’s damaged, they’ll replace it to prevent future leaks. The professional will also inspect the heat exchanger for cracks or corrosion, which can be harder to spot. 

This may involve using a special camera or mirror to look inside the exchanger. They’ll also check for any signs of overheating or poor airflow, which can cause these issues. A full furnace replacement may be required if the heat exchanger is compromised.

Lastly, they will ensure the air filter is clean, and the humidifier functions properly. They will repair or replace any parts that are damaged or need maintenance. 

How to Prevent Your Furnace from Leaking Water

Here are some practical tips to prevent water leaks in your furnace:

• Turn Off the Furnace: Locate the shutoff switch, usually found near the furnace and coil, and switch it off. If you can’t find the switch, turn off the system at the breaker. This will prevent any electrical risks while you inspect the furnace.
• Dry Off the Water: Clean up any standing water around the furnace immediately. This prevents further damage and reduces the risk of mold growth or electrical hazards.
• Check the Air Filter: Ensure the air filter isn’t clogged or dirty. A blocked filter can cause airflow problems and condensation to build up, which might lead to leaks.
• Determine if the AC is Involved: If your furnace leaks only when the air conditioner is running, it could be an AC-related issue, like a clogged drain line.
• Schedule Regular Maintenance: Have your furnace professionally serviced twice a year—once before the heating season and once before the cooling season. This helps catch potential problems before they turn into leaks.
• Call a Professional If Needed: If you’ve checked these common issues but still can’t find the cause of the leak, or if the problem seems serious, it’s best to contact an HVAC technician to investigate further. They’ll be able to diagnose and repair any underlying issues.

Tips to Hire Furnace Repair Company

Here are some essential tips to help you choose the right contractor:

• Check for a Valid HVAC Contractor’s License: HVAC contractors must be certified and licensed in Canada. Always ask for proof of their license to ensure they are qualified and legally allowed to work on your furnace.
• Verify Liability Insurance: Make sure the contractor has proper liability insurance. This protects you from being responsible for any accidents or damages during the repair work.
• Ask for References: A reputable contractor should be able to provide a list of references. Contact previous customers to ask about their experience with the company, including if the job was completed on time and within budget.
• Get Their Professional Opinion: Ask the contractor to assess your furnace and provide their expert opinion on the problem. This will help you gauge their knowledge and honesty about whether repairs or a replacement are necessary.
• Discuss Recommended Brands: If you need a new furnace, ask about their recommended brands and why. This can help you choose a furnace with the best energy efficiency for your home.
• Set a Timeline: Confirm how soon they can start the work and agree on a clear schedule. For non-emergency work, especially for larger projects, you might want to get the details in writing.

Before hiring a contractor, check out our guide on the Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring an HVAC Professional to ensure you’re making the right choice.

Conclusion

A furnace leaking water is something you shouldn’t ignore. Whether it’s a clogged drain or a bigger issue like a cracked heat exchanger, it’s important to fix it fast to avoid more damage. Regular check-ups and quick fixes can help keep your furnace in good shape.

If you’re not sure what’s causing the leak or need help, you can get help from local contractors to fix the problem and keep your furnace running smoothly. Get a free quote today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Staying warm during the colder times of the year can be tricky, particularly when you are on a budget and trying to minimize the use of your furnace. As snowstorms and frosty temperatures take over, you may find it difficult to cope without a proper heating system.

But there’s good news – you can improve the warmth and comfort of your space during this period without running a furnace at all!

If you’re wondering how, then this article is for you. Here, you’ll discover proven tips and techniques you can instantly start implementing to stay warm without the use of a furnace or other heating device.

And best of all, these tips don’t cost a lot less than more costly home energy upgrades!

Winter Saving Tips To Stay Warm Without Running A Furnace

Aside from the drop in temperature, another notable change that occurs during winter is the significant rise in heating costs throughout the season. As a matter of fact, the average Canadian homeowner spends more than $1,113 a year on space heating – an amount that’s more than half of the total home energy bill.

Whether you can afford it or not, saving money on heating expenses is highly recommended these days, especially as energy costs are on the rise.

Here are a few saving tips to implement if you plan to save money on your heating bills this winter:

Saving Tip #1: Use a Programmable Thermostat

Putting a programmable thermostat in place is the first step toward staying warm without running a furnace. It allows you to automatically control the temperature in your space whether you’re in or out, asleep or awake. If you’d love to fully optimize the function of your thermostat, you can purchase a smart thermostat like Nest or ecobee.

When the temperature in your space is optimally regulated, it naturally stays warm and comfortable for you without necessarily running a furnace. In addition, the smart thermostat you get will solve all your winter problems without the hassle and, at the same time, offer you strategic ways to reduce your electricity bill. All you need to do is to ensure you find the right smart thermostat that suits your needs.

Saving Tip #2: Harness Sun Heat

Harnessing the heat from the sun is the most natural way to stay warm without running your furnace. You can do this by opening your blinds and curtains to allow bright morning sunlight to enter and warm up your room during the cold weather. The heat that enters during the day can be retained and used throughout the night.

In addition, the vitamin D from sun rays also serves as a repellent for winter blues, and the UV light from the sun enhances indoor air quality. So, to allow the sun to shine through unhindered, reaching most parts of your home, make sure to trim back tree branches that may be causing an obstruction. The more you harness the heat from the sun, the more chances you have of keeping yourself and your home warm without a furnace.

Saving Tip #3: Add Door Draft Stoppers and Insulate Your Windows

The small opening beneath doorways is the most accessible passage for cold air to enter your home, even if doors are shut. Adding door draft stoppers is another effective way to keep your home warm without using a furnace. Door draft stoppers are handy and easy to make, and are placed right at the front of the door to prevent heat loss as well as cold air coming into the home.

You can also insulate your window by using plastic weatherproofing films to seal spaces air may penetrate through. You need a window film insulation kit with a plastic sheet and double-sided tape to do this. Once you cut the plastic sheet that fits your window size, apply the tape around the window frame to seal the sheet to the tape.

Saving Tip #4: Get a Floor Rug

While rugs add decorative touches to a room, it also helps to keep a room warm during the winter months. Irrespective of your flooring, having a rug above it can add underfoot warmth to the flooring while providing you with a warmer surface to walk or sit on.

The thicker and larger the rug, the more protection it offers against cold when you’re not running a furnace. So before choosing one, ensure you’ve evaluated its size and texture. Make sure to also clean your rugs frequently, otherwise any humid air might cause them to feel damp.

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Saving Tip #5: Get a Humidifier

As humidity levels naturally go down during winter, having cold air in your home can be intolerable, especially if you don’t plan to run a furnace. The best solution is to get a humidifier that helps combat winter air in the house. As much as getting a humidifier is one of the many furnace-saving tips, it would help only if you strategically use it.

Saving Tip #6: Reverse Your Ceiling Fan

Reversing your ceiling fan is another effective way to warm your room without running a furnace. It involves switching the fan’s direction from counterclockwise to clockwise to push warm air around the ceiling. You can do this by using the switch located at the base of the fan – a little-known tip about ceiling fans you’ve probably never heard of!

Saving Tip #7: Leave the Oven Door Open

Are you using the oven today? If so, don’t worry about the heating! Simply keep the oven door open when you’re done cooking. This may not heat a large area, but the hot air emanating from the over will provide some heat to your small space.

Other Things To Do For Yourself To Stay Warm Without A Furnace

Keeping a space warm may be a challenge, but if you’re not taking care of your own body temperature, the challenge doubles. There are several things you can do for yourself in order to stay warm without running a furnace:

1.   Wear Layers and Thermals

Considering you wouldn’t be running your furnace, a helpful thing to do is to wear layers to trap body heat that keeps you warm. You should wear these clothes on the body parts most susceptible to cold, like the head, hands, and feet.

For extra body warmth, consider wearing high-quality thermals in the form of undergarments, t-shirts, or leggings.

2.   Stay Active

Due to the temperature outside, people typically stay indoors more during winter. While that offers some protection from the cold, you can maximize it by getting yourself active rather than sitting still for an extended period. Staying active helps you stay warm and, at the same time, enhances the circulation of blood flow through your body.

3.   Drink Warm Beverages

Staying hydrated during cold weather is as helpful as during hot weather. The only difference is that you take warm drinks and beverages to stay warm during cold weather, while you take cold drinks and beverages during hot weather to cool off. As the focus here is on cold weather, you should prioritize coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and other great warm recipes to keep yourself warm.

4.   Use an Electric Blanket

One of the best ways to keep yourself directly warm without having to heat up the whole house is to use an electric blanket. And while you may think you will need to stay in bed to keep warm with it, think again. You can take the electric blanket with you to other parts of the house, such as the couch, particularly if the blanket is a single-sized one.  

5.   Use Bodywarmers and Hot Water Bottles

Another portable option is the hot water bottle. Take it with you around the house and you won’t even be thinking about turning on the furnace! A heating pad or bodywarmer is a similar option but differs in that both of them are even more portable that a hot water bottle, do not require water, offer direct heat onto the skin, and can fit snuggly under your clothes, in the insoles of your shoes, and some are small enough to fit even in your pockets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on a mission to decrease your heating bill, then you should either find a more affordable furnace or start considering how best to keep yourself and your home warm without necessarily running a furnace.

There are many ways to stay warm without running a furnace or turning on a heating device, most of which are quite cost-effective and will help you save on your heating bills in the long run. It’s up to you to decide which option you prefer and which works best for you.