Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s discuss some of the problems that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged
Your air conditioner’s compressor is an important component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your home. 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 unevenly.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
- An overheated compressor.
- 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. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect Mold
Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture drains into a pan and then out through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up pooling in the pan instead of draining away. This can cause:
- Water pooling around the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
- More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. Accelerated Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can cause annoying sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration can:
- Place more strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause an expensive refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.
How You Can Level Out 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 may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Controlled Comfort HVAC a call at 224-412-8308. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.