Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s discuss some of the issues that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. Damaged Compressor
Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important component. 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 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.
- An overheated compressor.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, 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 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 flowing 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.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can cause annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration could:
- Place extra 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 sooner.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, because your air conditioner might 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 Kilbourne Heating & AC a call at 561-287-7071. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.