Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the issues that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. Damaged Compressor
Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.
The compressor relies on oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- More expensive electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive components to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.
2. Rust and Mold
Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your house. This moisture drains into a pan and then out via a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up accumulating in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:
- Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. Increased Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can create annoying noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration could:
- Place extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Loosen refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc a call at 877-389-2465. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.