What is the typical cause of leaks in water-cooled air conditioning systems?

Leaks in water-cooled air conditioning systems are typically caused by corrosion. This is due to the presence of water and the various metals used in the construction of the system. Over time, the combination of moisture, oxygen, and other environmental factors can lead to the deterioration of metal components, such as the pipes and heat exchangers. When these parts corrode, small holes or cracks can form, allowing water to escape and resulting in leaks.

While clogging can cause water to back up and potentially lead to overflow, it doesn't directly create holes or leaks in the system itself. Mechanical failure refers to issues like broken components, which can also lead to leaks, but those situations are less frequent compared to the pervasive issue of corrosion in water-cooled systems. Inefficient cooling may indicate a problem with system functionality, but it does not necessarily lead to leaks. Thus, corrosion stands out as the most common and typical cause of leaks in these systems.