Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is important.
Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s discuss some of the issues that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.
1. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged
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 house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.
The compressor needs oil to work properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unequally.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- An overheated compressor.
- Higher electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.
2. Mold and Rust May Accumulate
Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your home. This moisture flows 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 draining away. This can lead to:
- Water pooling around the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to get rid of heat as efficiently.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
3. Accelerated Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can cause obnoxious sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration could:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and cause an expensive refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink further.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad takes expertise. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle by yourself, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.
If you’re worried your air conditioner is sinking and creating problems, give Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning a call at 203-772-8319. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.