Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are often 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 review some of the issues 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 a critical component. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor releases 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 because of grinding parts.
- An overheated compressor.
- 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 breaks, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.
2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect 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 pooling in the pan instead of flowing away. This can lead to:
- Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as efficiently.
- More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Severe Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate more than normal. This can cause obnoxious noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration could:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- 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 You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad takes 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 tech.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Precision Mechanical a call at 605-206-3766. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.