Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, having it level is important.
Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the issues that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged
Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into 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 cause:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it goes out, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.
2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect Mold
Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your house. This moisture flows 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 flowing away. This can lead to:
- Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as efficiently.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can create obnoxious sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration could:
- Place more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause an expensive refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink further.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.
How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Custom Air Systems Inc a call at 772-247-2283. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.