Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are often installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s go over 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 absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes 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 create:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- More expensive electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest 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 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.
- Damaged coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as efficiently.
- More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can create annoying sounds when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration can:
- Place extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Loosen refrigerant lines and create an expensive refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink further.
- 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 tackle by yourself, since your air conditioner might 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 AW Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 402-438-7992. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.