3 Things That Can Go Wrong If Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Level

Whether you’re getting a new air conditioner or looking to maximize your current one, getting it level is key.

Air conditioners are usually installed on concrete pads. Over time, the pad can crack, shift or sink. This can result in breakdowns and even premature failure. Let’s discuss some of the issues 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 implies, it compresses liquid refrigerant that has turned into gas as it absorbs heat from your house. Once the compressor exhausts 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.
• An overheated compressor.
• More expensive utility bills due to less efficient cooling.

The compressor is one of the most expensive parts to replace on your air conditioner. If it fails, you’re better off doing air conditioning installation due to this part’s cost.

2. Rust and 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 pooling 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 get rid of heat as efficiently.
• More expensive energy bills due to less efficient cooling.

3. Increased Wear and Tear

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

Excessive vibration can:

• Place more strain on parts and wear them out quicker.
• 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 on your own, since 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 creating problems, give Osceola Air, LLC a call at 407-954-8626. We’ll check your air conditioner for any damage and then determine the best way to get it level again.