Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, having it level is important.
Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions 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. 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 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 cause:
- Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- 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 goes out, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of 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 house. This moisture flows into a pan and then out through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might 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 exhaust 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 may vibrate excessively. 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.
- Loosen refrigerant lines and create an expensive 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 takes experience. 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 tech.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Wallpe Heating & Cooling a call at 812-663-7252. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.