Air Conditioner Condenser Valves are Leaking

Repairing the cause of a leaky condenser valve on an air conditioner requires no special tools or training. Many homeowners can perform the task themselves as long as the problem is not low refrigerant. Cleaning out a clogged drain tube or changing a dirty air filter are effective remedies to fix the problem. Knowing how to troubleshoot a leaking condenser valve can help prevent you from from having to pay a costly service call.

Pliers
Piece of sturdy wire (approximately 6 inches long)
Household bleach (optional)
Small container (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Unscrew the condenser valve check with your fingers or a pair of pliers.
- 2
  Look inside the valve and loosen the internal ball-like object with your fingers.
- 3
  Check for debris or algae growth. Run a piece of heavy wire around inside the valve to remove the debris.
- 4
  Clean out the condenser drain tube with the wire as well if algae or debris is present. This prevents the condenser valve from leaking again.
- 5
  Mix a solution to kill any algae if it is evident inside the valve or drain tube. Do this by mixing water and bleach at a ratio of 16:1 into a small container. Pour the bleach mixture inside the valve and drain tube and then rinse them with clear water.
- 6
  Replace the condenser valve with your fingers and use the pliers to tighten it.

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