Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the malfunctions 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 suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your home. 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 create:
- 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 most expensive parts 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 gets rid of 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 might end up pooling in the pan instead of flowing 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 efficiently.
- More expensive 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 create annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration can:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Luikart Heating & Cooling a call at 740-200-5591. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.