Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the problems that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. The Compressor Is Damaged
Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important part. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.
The compressor needs oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unevenly.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.
2. Rust and Mold
Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of 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 could end up accumulating in the pan instead of draining away. This can cause:
- Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
- 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 more than normal. This can cause obnoxious sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration can:
- Place more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- Loosen refrigerant lines and cause 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 experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC tech.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Air Current AC & Heat a call at 713-322-4318. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.