Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s review 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 part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor releases 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 create:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- An overheated compressor.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest components 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. Rust and Mold
Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture drains into a pan and then out through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up pooling in the pan instead of draining away. This can lead to:
- 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 bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. Increased Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate excessively. This can create obnoxious sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration can:
- Place more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- 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 to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, since 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 Central Heating & Plumbing a call at 724-401-1843. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.