Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the problems 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 takes on heat from your house. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.
The compressor needs oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.
This can create:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- More expensive electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest parts 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 gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture drains into a pan and then out via a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up pooling in the pan instead of draining away. This can cause:
- Water accumulating near 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 obnoxious sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration could:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Loosen refrigerant lines and cause an expensive 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 requires expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try on your own, 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 Air-Right Energy Design, Inc. a call at 703-260-1148. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.