Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, having 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 replacement. Let’s review some of the issues that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. Damage to the Compressor
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 releases 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 due to grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- Higher electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.
2. Mold and Rust May Accumulate
Water is a natural byproduct of 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 via a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up accumulating in the pan instead of draining away. This can lead to:
- Water pooling around the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
- Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Severe Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can create obnoxious sounds 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 further.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s typically 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 creating problems, give Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling a call at (815) 914-6197. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.