Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s discuss some of the problems that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. The Compressor Is Damaged
Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical part. 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 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 utility 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. Mold and Rust May Accumulate
Water is a natural byproduct of the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your house. This moisture drains into a pan and then out via a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up accumulating 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 exhaust heat as well.
- Higher 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 annoying sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration can:
- Put more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- Loosen refrigerant lines and cause an expensive refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad requires experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, because your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Select Comfort Systems a call at 801-305-4777. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.