Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature replacement. Let’s review 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 an important part. As its name implies, 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 relies on 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 utility bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, 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 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 might end up pooling in the pan instead of draining 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 well.
- Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. Increased 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.
Excessive vibration can:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly 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 takes expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, 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 causing problems, give JTech Mechanical a call at 281-231-8768. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.