Water leaking from the outdoor unit base or around connections

Some water around the outdoor unit is normal, especially in cooling or defrost cycles.

• Step 1 – Identify source: Observe whether water is clear and only appears during operation (likely normal condensate).
• Step 2 – Clear drain paths: Ensure any drain holes or channels in the base pan are not blocked by dirt or leaves.
• Step 3 – Improve drainage: If water pools, consider adding a small drain hose or improving the pad slope so water flows away from the building.
• Step 4 – Check for oily residue: If water appears oily or accompanied by hissing, shut down the unit and call a technician to check for refrigerant leaks.

Warning: Do not cover the base of the outdoor unit with plastic; this can trap water and cause corrosion.