Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s discuss some of the malfunctions that can happen and how to fix 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 house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.
The compressor relies on oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- Higher utility bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, 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 through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up accumulating in the pan instead of flowing 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 efficiently.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate more than normal. This can create annoying sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration could:
- Put more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink further.
- 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 help of a certified HVAC technician.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Woody's Sudden Service Inc a call at 703-278-2036. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.