Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s go over some of the issues that can happen and how to fix 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 unevenly.
This can create:
- Compressor damage because of 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 stops working, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.
2. Rust and Mold
Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your house. 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 accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
- More expensive energy bills 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 cause obnoxious sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration could:
- Place more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and create a costly refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try 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 Brookwood Inc a call at 641-316-9803. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.