Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, having it level is important.
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 issues 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 component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.
The compressor needs oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.
This can create:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.
2. Mold and Rust May Accumulate
Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture flows into a pan and then out via a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up pooling in the pan instead of flowing away. This can cause:
- Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
- 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 obnoxious sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration can:
- Place 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.
Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Fal-Ken Heating & Cooling Corporation a call at 631-460-5159. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.