Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature replacement. Let’s review some of the problems that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. Damaged Compressor
Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name suggests, 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 most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it goes out, 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 drains into a pan and then out through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water could end up accumulating in the pan instead of draining away. This can lead to:
- Water pooling around the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate more than normal. This can cause obnoxious noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration could:
- Place extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause a costly refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink further.
- 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 by yourself, since 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 Marcos AC & Heating a call at 713-469-3357. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.