A Los Angeles homeowner says a rooftop HVAC installation turned into a nightmare scenario after heavy rain sent water through the ceiling below the unit.
When the roofing details are handled poorly, even an energy-saving upgrade can quickly become an expensive mess.
Here's what to know
Writing on Reddit's r/HVACAdvice community, the homeowner said the contractor later stopped responding after installing the system "on the path of the water draining" and that it "didn't seal properly."
The issue became obvious when, as the original poster put it, "we woke up to water pouring down from our ceiling right under the HVAC!"
By the time the OP covered the roof with black plastic and had a roofer apply a temporary patch with mastic sealant, water had already gotten inside. The first-time homeowner said the leak left them worried about mold, wood damage, and mounting repair costs.
One commenter wrote, "Always a good idea to have a roofer seal this stuff. HVAC guys aren't roofers even if they think they can do it I wouldn't let them."
More background
Efficient HVAC systems and heat pumps can cut energy use, but poor installation can quickly erase those savings by causing water damage, wasted materials, and costly follow-up repairs.
When a contractor cuts corners or disappears, the fallout can burden households, waste resources, and undermine trust in upgrades that should make homes healthier and cheaper to run.
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A leak around a rooftop unit can damage drywall, insulation, framing, and indoor air quality. Once moisture gets into a home, homeowners may also have to pay for drying equipment, inspections, and possible mold remediation on top of the original installation cost.
What can be done?
Before any new HVAC installation, homeowners can also ask specific questions in writing: Who is responsible for roof penetrations? Who handles flashing and sealing? How will the condensate drain be routed? Is that work excluded from the contract? Clarifying those details up front can help prevent a painful surprise later.
Palmetto is one company that may be worth considering for those exploring a replacement. Through Palmetto's Comfort Plan, you can save money on utility bills and protect yourself against rising energy prices. The company will connect you with its team of vetted installers.
And if you're not ready to spend up front, the Comfort Plan includes $0-down options that can lower your heating and cooling costs by up to 50%, plus 12 years of free maintenance.
Where can I learn more?
Not every HVAC-related water problem starts with water pouring through the ceiling. These stories show how hidden moisture, AC drainage issues, and confusion over who is responsible can turn a small home problem into a much bigger expense.
• A new homeowner found a 5-day leak under damp carpet after HVAC confusion.
• At one home, a drip-drip-drip from the AC ended up helping keep compost moist.
• In a rental home, an astronomical water bill sparked a fight over leak responsibility.
Each one is a reminder of how fast a minor HVAC or water issue can spiral when no one is clearly on the hook.
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