Why does water drip from the chassis when the car's air conditioner is on?
2 Answers
It is normal for water to leak from under the chassis when the car's air conditioner is turned on. The dripping water under the car is usually condensation from the air conditioner, and it is normal for it to drip below the passenger seat. The air conditioner's compressor compresses the refrigerant, which then expands through a valve, releasing heat and lowering the temperature of the refrigerant. Since there is a lot of water vapor in the air, when it encounters the very cold evaporator, it turns into water. If there is a lot of condensation, it will flow out of the air conditioner's drain. Below is an introduction to air conditioner maintenance: 1. Comprehensive inspection of the air conditioner: When using the air conditioner for the first time in summer, check the air conditioning system, such as inspecting the refrigerant through the reservoir, whether the air filter is too dirty, and whether there are foreign objects in the radiator. 2. Pay attention to cleaning the air conditioner: The air filter should be replaced regularly; otherwise, the air conditioner may produce a musty smell. Additionally, the condenser should be cleaned periodically, and the radiator should be removed for thorough cleaning.
As a car mechanic who has driven many vehicles, it's normal to see water dripping from the undercarriage when the air conditioning is on. That's the condensation from the AC system. When cooling, the hot air inside the car condenses on the evaporator, forming water droplets that drain through a small tube underneath the car, usually near the front on the driver's side. This is more noticeable in hot, humid weather, similar to condensation on a cold glass in summer. Clear, odorless water dripping in moderate amounts is a good sign, indicating effective dehumidification by the AC. However, if there's excessive water flow, persistent dripping, unusual odors, or abnormal colors like blue or green (which could indicate coolant leakage), it may affect the AC system or airflow and requires prompt inspection to avoid major repairs. Normally, a small puddle under the car when parked is fine, but continuous flow isn't typical. Keep the drain hole clear.
