Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water? Causes, Fixes, and Prevention for Homeowners

If you’ve spotted a puddle of water near your furnace, don’t ignore it. A leaking furnace can be a sign of a simple maintenance issue—or a more serious component failure. This is a common concern we hear from homeowners in Arlington, Fort Worth, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and Kennedale, especially during the colder months when heating systems are working hardest.

At Air Techs Heating & Cooling, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing furnace leaks across these Texas communities. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common causes of furnace water leaks, what you can do right now, and how to prevent them in the future.

How Furnaces Work—and Why They Might Leak

AFUE, which stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, is a measure of how efficiently a heating system converts fuel into heat. Standard-efficiency furnaces, which are typically 80% AFUE, usually do not produce water. However, high-efficiency furnaces, which are 90% or higher AFUE, use a secondary heat exchanger that creates condensation as part of their normal operation. That condensation is drained away—but if the system is clogged or damaged, it may leak.

How to tell what type of furnace you have:

  • PVC exhaust pipe = High-efficiency condensing furnace

  • Metal exhaust pipe = Standard efficiency furnace

Not sure? Our licensed heating repair technicians can identify your unit and diagnose the issue.

Common Reasons for a Furnace Leaking Water

1. Clogged Condensate Drain Line

For high-efficiency systems, a blocked drain line is the most common cause of furnace leaks. Over time, mold, dirt, or debris can clog the drain, causing water to back up into the unit.

Fix: The line should be cleared with a cleaning solution or flushed. Schedule service during your seasonal maintenance to prevent clogs before they start.

2. Faulty Condensate Pump

If your system doesn’t drain by gravity, a condensate pump removes the water. If the pump fails, water builds up and leaks.

Fix: Pump replacement may be necessary. If you notice water pooling near your furnace or signs of rust, schedule a repair right away.

3. Cracked or Disconnected Drain Hose

Plastic tubing that carries condensation from the unit to the drain can crack, clog, or come loose—especially over time or after improper installation.

Fix: A technician can inspect the hoses during your regular tune-up.

4. Rust or Damage to Internal Components

Water can rust the heat exchanger or short-circuit the control board, leading to serious damage and safety risks like carbon monoxide exposure.

Fix: Our heating experts will inspect and repair internal damage or recommend a replacement if needed.

5. Humidifier Leak

If your HVAC system has a built-in humidifier, a cracked water line or clogged pad can cause leaks.

Fix: Turn off the humidifier and call for service. It’s a simple fix—but one that requires attention.

6. It’s Not the Furnace—It’s the AC or Water Heater

During summer, an AC leak can look like a furnace issue. Nearby water heaters can also be the culprit. Be sure to check:

  • Drain pans under the AC coil

  • Evaporator coil for freezing

  • Water heater base for leaks

If you’re not sure, our expert technicians can perform a full system inspection.

Is a Leaking Furnace Dangerous?

It can be. While a minor leak may just signal a clogged line, ongoing water exposure can:

  • Cause electrical shorts

  • Lead to rust or corrosion

  • Damage the heat exchanger

  • Promote mold or mildew in surrounding insulation

Water around your furnace is never normal. If left unchecked, it could lead to a full system failure—or worse, a safety hazard.

What to Do Right Now If Your Furnace Is Leaking

  1. Turn off your system at the thermostat or breaker.

  2. Clean up any standing water with towels or a wet vac.

  3. Inspect nearby components like humidifiers or water heaters.

  4. Call a licensed HVAC technician to prevent further damage.

Need help fast? Schedule an appointment online or contact us now.

How to Prevent Furnace Leaks in the Future

The best way to avoid furnace leaks is to invest in proactive maintenance. Air Techs Maintenance Agreement includes:

  • Semi-annual system tune-ups

  • Thermostat calibration

  • Blower and motor testing

  • Filter cleaning and replacement

  • Airflow and safety checks

  • Evaporator coil cleaning (if accessible)

As noted in our Maintenance Agreement PDF, regular service helps prevent breakdowns and may even be required to keep your manufacturer’s warranty valid.

Don’t wait until there’s a problem—sign up for our maintenance program today and extend the life of your system.

Get Trusted Furnace Repair in Arlington, Fort Worth & Beyond

Whether you live in Fort Worth, Arlington, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, or Kennedale, the trusted team at Air Techs Heating & Cooling is here to help.

If your furnace is leaking water, request a quote or schedule service now to stop the leak before it gets worse.

Your comfort is our priority—day or night.

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