HVAC

Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or looking 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 cause malfunctions and even premature failure. Let’s go over some of the problems that can happen and how to fix an air conditioner that isn’t level.

  1. Damage to the Compressor

    2. Your air conditioner’s compressor is a critical part. As its name implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into a gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts heat under pressure, the refrigerant turns into 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.
    • Higher 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 an air conditioning installation because of this part’s cost.

  2. The AC Unit Will Rust and Collect Mold

    3. Water naturally occurs during the cooling process. Your air conditioner gets rid of moisture from the air as it cools your house. 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 draining away. This can lead to:

    • Water is pooling around the air conditioner.
    • Rust and mold.
    • Rusty coils, which won’t be able to exhaust heat as well.
    • Higher energy costs due to less efficient cooling.

  3. More Wear and Tear

    4. If your air conditioner isn’t level, it might vibrate more than normal. This can create annoying noises when running and even require air conditioning repair.

    Excessive vibration can:

    • Put more 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, you’ll wear out your air conditioner much faster.

Steps for Leveling Your Air Conditioner Pad

Leveling an air conditioner pad takes experience. It’s usually not a job you’ll want to tackle 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 House of Heating, Inc. a call at (715) 384-3163. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.

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