Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, having it level is key.
Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s discuss some of the issues that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. Damaged Compressor
Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes 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.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive 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 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 could 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 exhaust heat as well.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. Increased Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can create annoying sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration could:
- Put 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 faster.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, because your air conditioner might 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 Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning a call at 952-373-0377. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.