Originally Posted by
US Iceman
Acid formation in refrigeration systems is usually the result of water combining with the refrigerant. When the moisture is compressed to higher pressures, the gas temperature also increases. After repeated cycles the acid begins to form and circulate with the oil. Then the oil carries the acid back to the compressor where it starts to break down the motor insulation (hermetic and semi-hermetic only) or the acid begins to dissolve varies metals (like copper), which then begins to plat other surfaces with the free copper floating around.
I kind of doubt the drain pans are leaking from acid created in the refrigeration system. If you had that severe of an acid problem you have bigger issues than drain pans!