Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, having it level is key.
Air conditioners are often placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s review some of the malfunctions 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 suggests, 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 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.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive parts 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 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 flows 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 draining away. This can cause:
- Water accumulating near the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust 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 excessively. This can cause obnoxious sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration can:
- Place extra 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 requires experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC tech.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Siloam Springs Heating & AC a call at 479-308-8176. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.