Whether you’re installing a new air conditioner or wanting to maximize your current one, having it level is key.
Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad could crack, shift or sink. This can result in malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s discuss some of the malfunctions that can happen and how to fix 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 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 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 create:
- Compressor damage due to grinding parts.
- An overheated compressor.
- More expensive 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. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect 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 through a line.
If your air conditioner isn’t level, water might end up accumulating 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.
- More expensive 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 create 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 even more.
- Eventually wear out your air conditioner much faster.
How You Can Level Out Your Air Conditioner Pad
Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s typically not a job you’ll want to tackle on your own, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the assistance of a certified HVAC technician.
If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Air Masters Heating & Cooling a call at 360-205-7115. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to level it.