Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s review 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 an important part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it takes on heat from your home. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.
The compressor relies on oil to work 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.
- More expensive electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, 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 could 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 exhaust heat as efficiently.
- Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can create annoying sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration could:
- Place extra 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 to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try on your own, because your air conditioner might 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 Jett's Heating & Air Inc. a call at 815-410-1128. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.