General Assist Customer Information

Water Draining from the Outdoor Unit

Why water may appear beneath an air conditioner and when a drain connection may be required
It is normal for water to drain from an air conditioner's outdoor unit, particularly while the system is heating in cold or humid weather. This is generally part of normal operation and does not indicate a product fault.

Why water comes from the outdoor unit

During heating operation, the outdoor coil becomes cold and may collect condensation or frost. The air conditioner periodically enters a defrost cycle to melt this frost so the system can continue operating efficiently.

The resulting water drains from openings in the base of the outdoor unit. The amount of water can vary depending on the outdoor temperature, humidity and how long the system has been operating.

Normal operation: Water beneath the outdoor unit during heating or defrost operation is expected. Outdoor units are designed for external installation and normal exposure to rain and condensation.

Redirecting the outdoor unit water

Where runoff may cause staining, slippery surfaces or inconvenience, a drain pipe can be connected to the underside of the outdoor unit to direct the water to a more suitable discharge point.

Drain connection components may be supplied with the outdoor unit when new. These small parts are sometimes not retained after installation when a drain connection is not required at the time.

Installation requirement: Any drain connection or alteration should be completed by a suitably licensed air conditioning installer or service technician. The drain must be installed with suitable fall and positioned so that water cannot create a slip hazard, damage nearby surfaces or freeze in a walkway.

If the original components are no longer available, replacement parts can be ordered. Confirm the outdoor unit model before ordering, as drain arrangements and components may vary between models.

Water from the indoor unit

During cooling and dry operation, moisture is removed from the indoor air and collected inside the indoor unit. A condensate drain installed as part of the air conditioning installation carries this water outside the building.

Water should not normally leak from the front, sides or underside of the indoor unit. If this occurs, turn the system off and arrange for the installation and drain to be inspected.

Disposing of condensate water

Condensate water can generally be discharged to a suitable garden or landscaped area, subject to local installation and drainage requirements. It is not intended for drinking or household use, as it may contain dust, dirt or other contaminants collected from the air conditioner and surrounding surfaces.

Reference drain components

The following components are used on applicable outdoor units. Confirm compatibility against the specific outdoor unit model before ordering.

ComponentQuantityUsePart Number
Drain pipe1For outdoor unit drain piping9303029015
Drain cap2Closes unused drain openings where applicable313166024302
 
Important: Drain parts and quantities shown are a reference only. Always verify the outdoor unit model, installation manual and current spare-parts listing before ordering or installing components.
For assistance confirming compatible drain components, contact General Assist with the complete indoor and outdoor unit model numbers.