These Three Things May Happen When an Air Conditioner Isn’t Level

Whether you’re installing 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 can crack, shift or sink. This can cause malfunctions 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.

1. Your Air Conditioner’s Compressor Could Be Damaged

Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical component. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your home. Once the compressor releases heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into liquid again.

The compressor needs oil to run 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 utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive 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 naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of 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 could 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 get rid of 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 more than normal. This can create obnoxious noises when on and even require air conditioning repair.

Too much vibration could:

• Place extra strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
• Shake loose refrigerant lines and create an expensive 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 try on your own, since your air conditioner might need to be temporarily disconnected. This requires the help of a certified HVAC tech.

If you think your air conditioner is sinking and causing problems, give Speedy Air Conditioning a call at 239-244-3439. We’ll inspect your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.