Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature replacement. 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 a critical part. 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 relies on 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.
- An overheated compressor.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it goes out, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of 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 flows 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 flowing away. This can lead to:
- Water pooling around the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
- More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate more than normal. This can create annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration can:
- 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 sooner.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. 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 assistance of a certified HVAC technician.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Air Service Co. a call at 918-212-8943. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.