Have you ever noticed water dripping from a small pipe high on your home’s wall or stains above your windows after your air conditioner runs? It might look like a strange plumbing quirk or design flaw — but in reality, it’s your air conditioning system trying to tell you something important.
For homeowners in Fresno, CA, this is one of the most common signs that your AC system needs attention or repair. The good news is, when you spot it early, the fix is usually simple — especially with help from JC Melton Air Conditioning, your trusted local HVAC experts.
Understanding That Dripping Pipe
Most homes have two drain lines connected to the air conditioning system — a primary condensate drain and a secondary (or overflow) drain.
Under normal operation, your AC system removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. That condensation flows through the main drain line, which usually exits low on the outside wall near the ground.
But if that line becomes clogged with dust, algae, or debris, the condensation has nowhere to go — so it backs up into the overflow drain line, which exits higher on the wall, often above a window or porch.
That’s why you see water dripping from a pipe high on your home. It’s an intentional design feature meant to alert you to a problem with your air conditioning system’s drainage before serious damage occurs.
Why the Overflow Drain Matters
If you see water coming from that upper pipe, it means your main drain line is blocked. While the overflow is doing its job, it’s only a temporary safeguard. If ignored, this can quickly lead to attic leaks, ceiling damage, and mold growth.
Homes in Fresno with attic-mounted HVAC units are especially vulnerable. When condensation overflows, it can saturate insulation, damage drywall, and even drip through ceiling vents or recessed lights — a sure sign that water is pooling where it shouldn’t.
Once that happens, the overflow safety pan beneath your air conditioner may have failed, allowing water to spread inside the ceiling. At this point, a simple maintenance issue can turn into costly repairs.
Common Causes of AC Overflow and Water Leaks
- Clogged condensate drain line: Dust, algae, and debris buildup are the #1 causes of blockages.
- Cracked or corroded drain pan: Older pans in attic units can rust or fail over time.
- Frozen evaporator coils: Low refrigerant levels or poor airflow cause coils to freeze and melt into excess water.
- Improper drainage slope: Poor installation can prevent water from flowing correctly through the pipes.
- Neglected maintenance: Without seasonal cleaning, condensation lines can quickly clog again.
What to Do if You See Water Dripping from a Pipe
- Turn off your air conditioner to prevent more condensation from forming.
- Locate the source — check if water is dripping from the upper (overflow) pipe or lower drain.
- Inspect your ceiling for stains or damp spots.
- Call a professional HVAC technician — like JC Melton Air Conditioning — to inspect and clear the drain line.
It’s important not to try to blow out or vacuum the line yourself unless you know what you’re doing. Improper cleaning can push the blockage further into the system or damage components.
How Regular Maintenance Prevents Overflow Problems
The best way to prevent these water issues is with routine air conditioning maintenance.
JC Melton’s Melton Care Preferred Customer Program provides twice-yearly inspections and cleanings, designed to keep your HVAC system running smoothly through Fresno’s hot summers and cool winters.
- Cleaning and clearing condensate drain lines
- Inspecting drain pans and overflow systems
- Checking refrigerant levels and coil condition
- Testing for early signs of leaks, corrosion, or blockages
The Cost of Ignoring an Overflow Warning
A small drip today can lead to major water damage tomorrow. When condensation collects in your attic, it can:
- Soak insulation and reduce energy efficiency
- Cause mold and mildew growth in hidden areas
- Stain and weaken drywall or ceilings
- Short electrical components near vents or lights
Fixing water damage often costs far more than an AC service call. The overflow pipe is your early warning system — treat it seriously and act quickly.
Why Choose JC Melton Air Conditioning
For more than 70 years, JC Melton Air Conditioning has been Fresno’s go-to team for air conditioning repair, installation, and maintenance. Our certified technicians are trained to spot and fix condensate drain issues before they cause damage, keeping your home comfortable and safe year-round.
- Air conditioning repair in Fresno, CA
- HVAC maintenance and system tune-ups
- Energy-efficient system replacements
- Emergency air conditioning services
Call Fresno’s Air Conditioning Experts Today
If you’ve noticed water dripping from a pipe high on your home, don’t wait. It’s a sign your AC system needs immediate attention. Contact JC Melton Air Conditioning today for professional air conditioning repair in Fresno and protect your home from costly water damage.
Call 559-268-6286 or visit jcmeltonair.com to schedule your service or learn more about our Melton Care maintenance program.