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 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 component. 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 needs 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.
- An overheated compressor.
- Higher energy bills due to less efficient cooling.
The compressor is one of the costliest components to replace on your air conditioner. If it stops working, 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 home. This moisture drains 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 flowing 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 efficiently.
- Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
3. More Wear and Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate excessively. 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 an expensive refrigerant leak.
- Make your air conditioner sink even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much sooner.
How to Level an Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to try by yourself, because 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 causing problems, give Titan Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 541-286-6617. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.