Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature replacement. 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 a critical component. As its name suggests, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your house. Once the compressor releases 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 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 stops working, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.
2. Rust and Mold
Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air as it cools your house. 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 flowing away. This can lead to:
- Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as well.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. Accelerated Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can create obnoxious sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration can:
- Place more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause a costly 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 experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try on your own, since 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 PS Cool Heat a call at 720-613-2210. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.