How To Fix My Leaking Amana Furnace?

Your furnace may be leaking water, which may surprise you. Furnaces, after all, do not use water as a fuel source. So, what will cause them to leak? What, specifically, will cause an Amana furnace to leak?

If your Amana furnace is leaking water, it most likely has a condensation problem. It could be from the drain hose, the condensate pump, the drain pan, or a humidifier attached to the system. It is critical to first consider the type of furnace you have.

A high-efficiency furnace will have a white PVC drain pipe through which condensation can leak. If there is a metal pipe, the furnace is most likely not a high-efficiency unit.

The condensation in these units is most likely caused by another appliance. It is best to check nearby appliances such as humidifiers and air conditioning units in this case.

Condensation occurs when high-efficiency furnaces emit gases. In turn, the condensation flows through the PVC pipe and drains into the drain pan or pump. Condensation will not drain properly if there is water leakage during this process.

Why Do High-Efficiency Furnaces Leak Water?

Drainage Hose
The drain hose is located at the PVC pipe’s end. The hose can become clogged with soot, debris, and dust over time. As a result, if the condensation cannot escape elsewhere, it will begin to leak from the holes.

In this case, simply cleaning or replacing the drain hose is the best option, especially if it is old or damaged in any way.

Inducer Assembly
Condensation enters the inducer assembly as it runs down the flue pipe and out of the drain hose. Over time, wear and tear can cause the inducer assembly to crack. As a result, water will begin leaking from the pipe.

If the inducer assembly is cracked, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced. Depending on the Amana model, these assemblies cost between $50 and $80.

Condensate Trap
Water can also leak from the condensate trap. This is most likely to occur if the trap becomes clogged with dirt, debris, or water minerals. Please keep in mind that not all high-efficiency units have a condensate trap, so this may not apply to all models.

Condensate Pump
Aside from the condensate drain hose, the most common source of water leaks is the condensate pump. It, like other components, can clog over time and block the drain, causing water leakage.

The formation of rust stains around the furnace cabinet usually indicates that the condensate pump is leaking.

In some cases, there may be water on the floor near the base. Sometimes the pump fails, causing water to back up and overflow, resulting in a large leak that can cause significant water damage.

If this is the case, a professional HVAC technician should replace the pump as soon as possible. A typical condensate pump will last 6 to 10 years.

Why Do Low-Efficiency Furnaces Leak Water?

A conventional furnace that is operating at an average efficiency level will not produce any water. If you notice standing water around the unit, it is most likely caused by a nearby appliance. Here are a few of the most common offenders.

The Drain Pan For The Air Conditioner
Even though some air conditioning units are outside, they are still linked to the HVAC system. As a result, when the units are turned on, they will produce water and condensation. The drain pan is under the evaporator coil.

A secondary drain pan can be found at the bottom of some air conditioners. The drain pan collects any excess condensation from the unit. As a result, if there is a hole or crack in it, water will leak out.

Evaporator Coils That Have Frozen
If the unit has refrigerant leaks, the evaporator coils can freeze. As a result, water may begin to leak around the coils of the unit. When there is a restriction in the airflow within the unit, the coils may freeze up.

When the air conditioner is turned off or shuts down after a cycle, the coils thaw, causing water to leak around them. It’s best to fix this problem as soon as possible because frozen coils can crack, costing hundreds of dollars in repairs.

Hot Water Heater
In some cases, the problem may be with the water heater. If the water heater is cracked or old, it may leak near the bottom. Water heaters are frequently installed right next to the furnace.

As they age, they can accumulate sediment, which is usually the result of poor maintenance.

In any case, the sediment will eventually cause corrosion and degradation of the rods surrounding the heater’s base. If a leak develops, the water heater will continue to leak until it is replaced.

Dehumidifiers & Humidifiers
Dehumidifiers connected to furnaces serve the same purpose as evaporator coils.

They release condensation into a drain pan because they can draw moisture from the air.

If you notice a lot of water around the pan (which is near the furnace), it’s most likely coming from the dehumidifier, not the furnace.

It is, however, best to inspect the furnace’s condensate line to ensure that the leak is not coming from there. Humidifiers connected to furnaces may also begin to leak. During the winter, when the humidifier is most likely used, you may notice water leaking around it.

Examine the fitting on the humidifier’s water supply as well as the drainage hose. If there are any leaks, they will usually come from these two locations.

Repair any damage to the humidifier’s hose with Teflon tape or adhesive.

What Is Causing My Amana Furnace To Leak Water?

If your high-efficiency Amana furnace is leaking water, the problem is most likely with the drain hose, line, or pump. If your unit is not a high-efficiency model, the leak is most likely caused by a nearby appliance, such as a humidifier, dehumidifier, or attached air conditioner component.

Does The Furnace Require Water To Operate?

No, furnaces do not require water to function. They only require a consistent supply of either gas or electricity, depending on the make and model of the furnace.

However, as part of the combustion process, most modern furnaces emit condensation. As a result, the furnaces will release condensation into a pan via a drainage line and hose.

Is It A Problem If My Furnace Leaks Water?

It is determined by the amount of water leaking from the furnace. Water leakage is normal for high-efficiency units (which most modern units are). However, if the leak appears to be excessive, you should have a technician inspect the furnace.

For example, if you notice rust stains or corrosion at the bottom of the furnace, it is likely that there is a significant leak. It should be inspected in this case.

Not only can a leak cause significant water damage, but it can also indicate that it needs to be repaired.

How Much Does A Leaking Furnace Repair Cost?

It is determined by the source of the leak. For example, if drainage holes or lines need to be cleaned, the repair could cost as little as $75 to $100. However, if the condensate pump or heat exchanger needs to be replaced, the repair could cost up to $200 or $500.

What Is The Average Lifespan Of A Furnace?

A well-maintained furnace can last 15 to 20 years or more if properly maintained.

Conclusion

If you notice water leaking from your furnace, you should try to locate the source of the leak. If the water appears to be coming from a drainage-related component, try to repair or replace the port. If the problem appears to be more complicated, contact a qualified HVAC technician for assistance.