Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the problems that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. The Compressor Is Damaged
Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important component. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.
The compressor needs oil to run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
- An overheated compressor.
- More expensive utility bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.
2. Rust and Mold
Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your house. This moisture flows into a pan and then out through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up pooling in the pan instead of flowing away. This can cause:
- Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as efficiently.
- More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Severe Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate excessively. This can create obnoxious noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration could:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling a call at 740-474-5940. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.