Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are typically 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 malfunctions 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 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 needs oil to run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unevenly.
This can create:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- Higher utility bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.
2. Mold and Rust May Accumulate
Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture flows into a pan and then out through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could 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 efficiently.
- More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. Increased Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can cause annoying sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration could:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause an expensive refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink further.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Air Temperature Control a call at 478-202-3170. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.