Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are typically installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the malfunctions 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 part. As its name implies, 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 becomes liquid again.
The compressor needs 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.
- An overheated compressor.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive components 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. 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 through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up accumulating in the pan instead of draining away. This can cause:
- Water pooling around the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
- More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. Increased Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can cause annoying noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration could:
- Place extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause a costly 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 try by yourself, because your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Premium Air Services LLC a call at 713-364-9957. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.