1996 Honda Accord - Water Leak Under Dash

Can someone tell me what would cause water to leak from under the dash on
the passenger side when the air conditioner is being used?

 

This is quite simple really. There is a box under the glove box and it has
a hose that runs out under the car (ever notice the dripping when the A/C is
running?)

This drain has become clogged. I have had luck with simply blowing air back
into the hose, dislodging the clog, but be warned, you will get a mouthful
of nasty if you blow into it. Better to use a can of compressed air or an
air hose. Pinch the drain hose tightly around the nozzle, and blow some air
back in. This should clear it up. If it's really bad, the box will need to
be removed and cleaned.

G-Man

 

I have water pouring into the driver's side floorboard on the same
model. It is cold and seems to be condensation from the AC. How can
this happen? It only occurs during sharp right turns. When I turn to
the left I sometimes hear a sizzling noise. I suspect a plugged drain
hole. How do I get access and where do I look?

 

It is a plugged drain. I can't get specific without seeing the car, but
look under the glove box. There should be a rubber hose coming out of the
black box and going through the firewall somewhere. I wouldn't pull the
hose off the box, as you will get a LOT of water in the car.


G-Man

 

I'd add to G-man's excellent posts that the accumulation of condensation
probably has led to mildew in the evaporator pan. If you aren't smelling it
now you soon may! Flushing the pan out with isopropyl alcohol should reduce
that, but not much will eliminate it. The flush is done the obvious way,
using a baster or similar to pump a cup or so of alcohol backward up the
drain hose (usually from under the car, just because access is "easier" in a
relative way) and letting it drain out.

While on the subject, have you checked to see if you have a cabin air
filter? It should be intercepting the dirt and debris that is causing this
and may be corroding the evaporator.

Mike

 

Thank you all for identifying this mystery. I will definitely apply your
suggestions.

 

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Take a look at www.slhondaparts.com for the exploded view of your
heater. Unplug the connector, remove three screws and the fan / motor
falls on the floor. Use a mirror and GOOD flashlight to peer inside.
Clean out scum and spray with good algaecide.

I'm surprised nobody has yet gotten Legionnaire's Disease from the AC
unit of a car . . .

'Curly'