Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.
Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over 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 exhausts 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 unequally.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- More expensive electricity bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it breaks, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.
2. Rust and Mold
Water naturally occurs during 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 might end up pooling in the pan instead of draining away. This can cause:
- Water pooling around 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 Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it may vibrate excessively. This can cause annoying noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.
Excessive vibration could:
- Put extra strain on parts and wear them out faster.
- Loosen refrigerant lines and create a costly 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 requires experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try on your own, because 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 Watts Electric & A/C Inc a call at 601-736-7362. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.