Properly Assessing and Dealing With Furnace Leaks
When you notice a leak around your furnace, the first step is to determine what you’re dealing with — water or gas. The two issues are different, and knowing which one you have is critical.
A furnace gas leak usually makes itself known through a strong rotten egg or sulfur smell. This odor is added to natural gas as a warning sign. If you detect it, treat it as an emergency. A furnace water leak is far less urgent but still needs attention. Pooling water near the base of your unit or dripping from connected lines usually signals a problem in the condensate system. If you smell gas, skip everything else and follow the emergency steps outlined below right away.
What to Do Immediately for a Furnace Gas Leak
A furnace gas leak is dangerous. Your safety and your family’s safety come first. Take these steps:
- Do not turn on or off any lights, appliances, or electronics.
- Extinguish candles, pilot lights, or any other open flames.
- Evacuate everyone from the home immediately.
- Once you’re at a safe distance, call 911 and then your local gas utility company.
- Only after the situation is secure should you arrange professional service for leaking furnace equipment.
Common Causes of a Furnace Water Leak
Unlike gas, water is a natural by-product of high-efficiency furnaces. But excess moisture or standing water means something isn’t working right. Common causes of a furnace water leak include:
- Clogged condensate drain line: Dirt and debris block the line, forcing water to back up.
- Condensate pump malfunction: If the pump fails, it can’t move water away from the unit.
- Humidifier problems: A whole-home humidifier connected to your system can leak into or around the furnace.
- Cracked heat exchanger: This serious issue requires immediate professional attention.
Your Action Plan for a Leaky Furnace
If you’ve confirmed it’s a water leak, here’s what you can do:
- Turn off the power: Shut down the furnace at the thermostat and circuit breaker.
- Clean up the water: Use towels or a wet-dry vacuum to limit damage.
- Check the filter: A wet or clogged filter can worsen the issue.
- Inspect the condensate line: Look for obvious clogs or disconnections.
Don’t Risk It: Call the Professionals at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®
Even if the problem seems minor, a furnace leaking water can signal bigger issues. Repairing a heat exchanger or replacing a pump isn’t a DIY project — it requires trained technicians. At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, we provide fast, reliable service for leaking furnace systems, including emergency care.
Book now or contact us today for expert furnace repair you can trust. Let us help you today.