As a homeowner, it can be daunting to make sure all of your appliances and home systems are up and running efficiently and as they should on a regular basis. And even more daunting is the prospect of running into an issue and not knowing how to fix it.

If you’ve ever noticed water leaking from your furnace, whether it’s powered by gas, propane, oil or electricity, it can be a bit of a scary sight. Here’s why your furnace could be leaking water.

Condensation Leaks

For high-efficiency furnaces, one of the most common causes of water leaks is condensation leaks. High-efficiency furnaces have two heat exchangers, which cause combustion gases to cool and condense. The condensation leaves your home through a drain, but if you notice water build up, it’s not draining properly. This may be for a couple of reasons, including:

• Clogged condensation tubing
• Clogged drains
• Damaged condensation line
• Condensation pump issues

Call your HVAC technician to diagnose the problem for you and to get your furnace up and running properly again.

Incorrectly Installed Flue Pipe

The flue pipe allows combustion products from your natural gas furnace to leave your home, and these can include carbon dioxide and water vapour. As the water vapour leaves through the flue pipe, sometimes it can condense and pool within the pipe, causing a leak. This could happen if your flue pipe hasn’t been installed with the correct amount of slope in your roof, or if it’s too large or too small for your furnace. You’ll notice a flue pipe leak in the attic of your home.

Whole-Home Humidifier Issues

Whole-home humidifiers are integrated into your home’s comfort system, and works in combination with your HVAC automatically. As your HVAC works, the humidistat will measure and monitor your home’s air for humidity, and will add moisture to the air – especially during the winter when the air is most dry. Sometimes, your humidifier may leak if there is too much water pressure, a drain line backup or if the valve is blocked.

Internal Drain Clog

In many home comfort systems, your air conditioner and your furnace share an internal drain system. While it’s unlikely that you’re using your air conditioner and furnace at the same time of year in Ontario, you may experience a drain system plug which could send water into your furnace.

Water leaks in and around your furnace can cause expensive and extensive damage, and they can also be dangerous. Contact Bryan’s Fuel in Orangeville and let one of our experienced HVAC technicians come and diagnose your particular issue.