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The Sinking AC Condenser: How This Can Be Bad News

ac-on-slabGo outside your house and look at the condenser cabinet for the central air conditioner. You’ll notice that it’s placed onto a concrete slab, rather than just set on the ground. This is because the condenser is a heavy object and it would start to sink right down into the ground if it wasn’t put on a solid foundation. Laying down a concrete pad is a critical part of putting in the first AC for a new house.

That doesn’t mean the concrete slab won’t start to sink at some point! If you noticed during your trip to look at the condenser (and how often have you really looked at this critical part of your home comfort system?) that the unit appeared a bit uneven, then you may have a sinking condenser. 

No, the condenser isn’t going to vanish into the ground. But an uneven condenser because of a sinking slab is still a problem that calls for air conditioning repair in Brighton, MI. Read on to learn more!

The Problems With an Uneven Condenser

The condenser contains essential components for the operation of an air conditioner, and these precision parts won’t work as well if the unit is “tipsy.” Here are several of the problems that a sinking slab can create for an air conditioning system:

  • A general increase in strain on the system. The mechanical parts of the condenser will suffer from more wear and tear if the unit is off balance. One of the reasons for this is damage due to the unit vibrating. The condenser vibrates as it runs, but the effect of these vibrations is stronger if the cabinet isn’t level. Parts (like the motors and fans) will wear down faster. The shaking can tear loose the refrigerant lines. And it will make the condenser sink even further. 
  • Compressor troubles. The most important component in the condenser is the compressor, the heart of the operation of an AC. The compressor must be level because of the oil inside it. A tilted compressor won’t distribute oil evenly, which will contribute to heavy wear on the compressor that can lead to overheating. A dead compressor usually means the whole unit must be replaced. 
  • Water drainage problems. An uneven, sinking condenser is at a higher risk of collecting water inside it. This will lead to mold and rust and an early end for the condenser. 

Fixing a Skewed Condenser

Sorry, you can’t stick an old dictionary under the corner to prop it up like a couch! In fact, there isn’t anything you can do as a DIY project to fix this. You shouldn’t let an amateur attempt to do it either—they’ll likely make the issue worse. You need the work of HVAC professionals to correct the problem. 

Our technicians are familiar with sinking condenser slabs, and we have the tools and knowledge to find the best solution to the problem. We’ve been in business for 20 years and we’re ready to make your home happy!

Call First Choice Heating & Cooling for your AC repair needs. If your home had a voice … it would call First Choice!

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