Portable air conditioners are a lifesaver for renters in Singapore who can’t install wall-mounted units. Many portable air conditioners are used in place of permanent units, especially in rented apartment complexes where homeowners cannot drill into walls.
However, they can have problems such as portable air conditioner water leaks and dirty filters that need to be addressed. Problems with portable units should be addressed immediately as portable AC's are difficult to repair.
Understanding Portable AC Unit
A portable AC unit is a compact, movable air conditioner with wheels and a detachable hose that can be easily moved around and set up wherever you need it. Generally, portable ACs work just like other air conditioners. They can cool the air in a room and are usually equipped with a hose that vents warm air out through a window.
8 Causes of a Portable AC Leaking Water
Reason #1 Full Drip Pan
Portable ACs collect moisture in a drip pan, which can overflow if not emptied regularly–and we often find this problem amongst our clients. The portable AC leaks water simply because they forget to check the drip pan when they run the portable air conditioner constantly during Singapore's hot season. If you experience this too, simply unplug the AC unit, and drain out the water that accumulated in the catch tray. This should immediately fix the problem.
Also read: AC Drain Pan Replacement: A Complete Guide on Cost
Reason #2 Dirty Air Filter
Dust buildup in Singapore can clog AC’s air filter and restrict its airflow. This can cause ice to form inside the unit, which later can melt and leak water.
We always advise our clients to regularly clean their air conditioner filters, no matter what the aircon type is. To clean the AC filter, you can simply run it under tap water, and brush out the grime with some soap. Alternatively, you can use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose dust for a quick clean.
Reason #3 Clogged Drain Line
A portable AC leaking water may have blocked the drain line due to dust, debris, or mold—which is common to happen due to Singapore’s humid weather. If the drainage is blocked, water might back up and leak through the vents instead of traveling to the drip pan.
To clean the clogged drain hose, use a long stick—like a chopstick or a screwdriver to carefully dislodge the clog. Run water through the line to rinse out the debris, and place the drain hose back into your air conditioning unit.
Reason #4 Faulty Condensate Pump
If your portable AC relies on a pump to expel water, a failure can cause water to pool inside. Thus Singapore homeowners who live in high-rise HDBs with no floor drainage might face this issue.
If you encounter this issue, you will need to bring the faulty air conditioner to be checked out by our HVAC technicians. Our technicians are well-versed in diagnosing and fixing problems with portable AC units, so they will be able to find a fix or replacement for your condensate pump.
Reason #5 Loose Drain Plug
A loose drain cap or plug won't hold water in and will start to leak out water from your unit as it cannot sufficiently keep your AC unit watertight. Singapore homeowners often overlook this after moving the unit for cleaning. It’s important to check the cap and tighten it properly to keep your AC watertight.
Reason #6 Improper Installation
Placing your portable AC unit on an uneven surface—like tiled floors or slightly sloped balconies can prevent proper drainage which might lead to leaks. Thus ensuring the unit is level and positioned correctly is important to allow smooth water flow.
Reason #7 Excessive Humidity
Singapore’s high humidity can increase condensation inside the AC, especially if the unit runs for long hours. If the AC’s drainage system can't keep up with this extra moisture, water may start leaking from the bottom. If your portable AC has a dehumidifying mode, activate it to help manage excess moisture and prevent leakage.
Reason #8 Damaged Components
Worn or damaged components are another common reason why portable air conditioners leak water among Singaporean homeowners. Over time, parts like gaskets, seals, or hoses can wear out and compromise the portable AC unit’s ability to contain and drain water properly.
Portable AC Leaking Water: How to Prevent It?
A portable air conditioner leaking water is a common issue due to Singapore’s humid climate. But to keep your portable AC unit from leaking, you can follow these essential maintenance tips!
Schedule Regular Cleaning
We always recommend our clients to have professional cleaning every 3-6 months to prevent dirt buildup that can lead to clogged drain lines and water leaks. If you need a professional HVAC technician to take care of your aircon services—contact us for a hassle-free process. Our services, including general cleaning, chemical washes, and overhauls will help extend your AC’s lifespan.
Routine Maintenance Checks
Portable ACs can be harder to repair than wall-mounted units. By having routine maintenance checks from our technicians, we will be able to provide maintenance services to detect early signs of wear and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Fix Issues Immediately
Leaking water may seem like a small issue, but delaying repairs can lead to mold, water damage, or even system failure. Our aircon specialists quickly diagnose and resolve leaks to prevent costly repairs.
Clear Drain Blockages
Singapore homeowners often face drain hose blockages due to dust and mold buildup. Check for kinks or clogs regularly, and keep the air filter clean to ensure proper drainage.
Inspect Components for Wear
Damaged gaskets, seals, or hoses can cause portable AC leaking water problems. During periodic maintenance, it’s important to check these parts and use manufacturer-approved replacements if needed.
Use Dehumidifier Mode
High humidity increases condensation and can overload portable AC’s drainage system. If your unit has a dehumidifier mode, activate it to control moisture buildup and prevent leaks.
Empty the Drip Pan Regularly
For portable ACs without automatic drainage, it’s important to empty the drip pan frequently, especially when Singapore is hit with constant rain that can make the temperature extra humid. Overfilled tras area top cause of portable AC unit leaking water complaints among our client.
Keep the Unit Level
An unevently placed AC won’t drain properly which can lead to leaks. Use a level tool to check positioning and avoid placing your unit on carpets or soft surfaces that can shift over time.
Look for Luce Aircon
Whether it’s a portable or wall-mounted aircon, keep your aircon in top shape with Luce. Luce is one of the leading air conditioning cleaning and repair companies in Singapore. We offer purchasing, installation, and maintenance services, so you don't need to worry about your unit's upkeep. Let our technicians guide you through proper air conditioner maintenance, and you'll enjoy that cool breeze longer.
Contact us today with any inquiries, and let us handle that aircon problem!
