Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, having it level is key.
Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could 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 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 absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts 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 unequally.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- Higher electricity 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. 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 drains 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 lead to:
- Water pooling around the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
- More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate excessively. This can create annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration could:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and create an expensive refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires 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 technician.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. a call at 803-265-4208. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.