Three Things That Can Happen When An Air Conditioner Isn't Level
Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, having it level is key.
Air conditioners are usually placed on concrete pads. As time passes, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature replacement. Let’s go over some of the malfunctions that can happen and how to repair an air conditioner that isn’t level.
Damage To The 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 absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant becomes liquid again.
The compressor needs oil to run properly. If your air conditioner isn’t level, its oil could be distributed unevenly.
This can cause:
- Compressor damage because of grinding parts.
- A compressor that’s too hot.
- Higher energy 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.
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 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 cause:
- Water pooling around the air conditioner.
- Rust and mold.
- Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as efficiently.
- More expensive energy costs due to less efficient cooling.
Accelerated Wear And Tear
If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can cause annoying sounds when running and even require air conditioning repair.
Too much vibration can:
- Place extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
- Shake loose refrigerant lines and create 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 usually not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner may need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC technician.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Tokay Heating & Air a call at (209) 257-3156. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.
